James Lucien Campbell's Obituary
James Lucien Campbell
November 9, 1950 – July 4, 2026
James Lucien Campbell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, radio personality, veteran, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 75.
James was born on November 9, 1950, in Houston, Texas, to Vivian and Lucien Campbell. He spent his childhood growing up in New Channey, Texas, where he developed a lifelong love of music, adventure, and the outdoors. He graduated from Highland Park High School in Dallas, where he was an active member of the marching band and proudly played the saxophone. His passion for music, first nurtured during those school years, would remain a defining thread throughout his life.
Following high school, James attended Tyler Junior College before answering the call to serve his country. He joined the United States Army and was stationed in Korea, where he worked in broadcasting. The skills and experiences he gained there helped lay the foundation for a career that would become one of his greatest passions.
In the late 1970s, James moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he embarked on a distinguished career in radio. Over the years, he worked at several stations throughout the area, most notably KMOD. Radio was more than a profession to James—it was a calling. He loved the connection, creativity, and community it provided. His daughter, Vivian, shared his enthusiasm for the industry, and their mutual love of radio became a special bond between them. Outside of being a devoted husband and father, his radio career remained one of his proudest and most celebrated accomplishments.
James embraced life with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. He loved the outdoors, whether riding his motorcycle on an open road, camping beneath the stars, or searching for crystals with his children—memories they would cherish forever. He also enjoyed firearms and target shooting. One of Vivian's favorite memories was the special outings she shared with her father at the shooting range while Julia was away, moments filled with laughter, learning, and the unique bond they shared.
Though he enjoyed many hobbies, music remained one of James's greatest loves. From his days as a young saxophonist to his final years, music was a constant companion. He and his beloved wife, Julia, spent countless evenings attending concerts and enjoying live performances together, creating treasured memories almost until his final days.
James and Julia shared a love story that family and friends never tired of hearing. The two first met at a radio industry event, where Julia quite literally got his attention by throwing ice at him. What began as a playful introduction grew into a lasting partnership built on love, laughter, friendship, and unwavering devotion.
Above all else, James treasured his family. He was a loving husband, a proud father, and a source of guidance, humor, and encouragement to those who knew him. His kindness, adventurous spirit, passion for music, and unmistakable voice will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched.
James leaves behind his beloved wife, Julia; his children, Vivian Foreman and husband Stacy, Ben Campbell, and Paige Love and husband Ronnie; grandchildren Luke Foreman, Amaya Love, and Ann Love; and a host of family members, friends, colleagues, and listeners whose lives were enriched by his presence.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Vivian and Lucien Campbell; and brother F. Russell Campbell; and Uncle Benjamin Singleton Campbell.
As we remember James, we celebrate a life filled with music, service, adventure, laughter, and love. His voice may be silent, but the memories he created and the lives he touched will continue to resonate for generations to come.
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