James W. Elrod's Obituary
James “Jimbo” Elrod passed from this life on December 12, 2016 in Chandler, OK and is now with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Jimbo was a faithful believer throughout his life and attended Redeemer Covenant Church in Tulsa, OK for many years. Jimbo was born in Memphis, Tennessee on May 25, 1954 to Dr. Bill B. Elrod and Mabel Louise Elrod. He grew up in Tulsa, OK where he excelled in many sports while attending East Central High School. Football and Wrestling would prove to be his passions. As a football player, he was an All Stater his Senior year and went on to play in the Oil Bowl where he was named Most Valuable Player. As a wrestler Jimbo was East Central’s first undefeated State Champion at 178lbs and winner of the Mat Scoreboard with a record of 27-0 with 18 pins. Jimbo attended the University of Oklahoma on a dual scholarship in Football and Wrestling. Jimbo played defensive end and is well known for his explosive tackles. His career record of 44 tackles for loss would remain unbroken for 26 years. He was a Consensus All American in 1975. A key member of both the 1974 and 1975 National Championship football teams. Jimbo was also a member of the 1974 National Wrestling team making him the only student athlete to ever win National Championships in two sports while attending OU. Jimbo went on to play in the National Football League when he was drafted in the 5th round by the Kansas City Chiefs. He would play at Kansas City for three seasons and later one season with the Houston Oilers before injury would end his professional football career. After his NFL career Jimbo earned a degree in Public Relations and Business Administration. He worked in the personal healthcare business as well as sports radio hosting and analysis. Jimbo continued to be a big part of Oklahoma football always ready to mentor and rarely missed a game. Jimbo was preceded in death by his parents Dr. Bill B. Elrod and Mabel Louise Elrod. He is survived by his wife Diana M. Elrod, brothers Leroy B. Elrod, William F. Elrod, Robert J. Elrod, sister Frances L. Elrod-Juarez, daughter Chanel Elrod and stepsons Chad and Brad Stites, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and grandchildren. You are invited to attend a celebration of life in honor of Jimbo Elrod being held January 7, 2016 at 2pm in the main Sanctuary at Asbury United Methodist Church located at 6767 S. Mingo Rd in Tulsa, OK. In lieu of flowers we ask that you please consider a donation to the Jimbo Elrod Memorial Fund. https://www.gofundme.com/mvc.php?route=search&term=jimbo%20elrod%20memorial.
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