James Rudolph Weese

James Rudolph Weese of Fort Smith, was born June 3, 1951 in Fort Smith, and went to be with our Lord, December 12, 2025, at the age of 74, after a long illness. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frances and Sidney Weese; and two brothers, Gerald and David Weese, both of Fort Smith. He attended Saint Annes High School and Northside High School, class of 1970. He received an Associate Degree from Westark Community College in 1975. James proudly served in the US Navy during the Viet Nam War as a helmsman on the US Shangri La aircraft carrier. He retired from Rheem Manufacturing after 17 years and then retired from Trane Manufacturing after 17 years. He enjoyed boating, camping, fishing, hunting, and sitting on the patio watching the squirrels and birds. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Margie Sanders Weese, of Fort Smith; step-son, Thomas Sanders of Fort Smith; daughter, Cynthia Wagley and husband Caleb of Barling, AR; and 4 grandchildren; grandson, Corey Sanders of Fort Smith, granddaughter, Katie Buxton and husband Kolton of Alma, AR, grandson, Hunter Wagley of Barling, and grandson, Maddox Wagley of Barling; a sister, Rose Becquart and husband James of Chapman, KS; and a sister, Linda Baker and husband Chris of Trinity, North Carolina; and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 5 – 6:30 PM, at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel, with Rosary beginning at 6:30 PM. Funeral Service will be 10:00 AM Friday in Edwards Funeral Home Chapel, with burial to follow at Fort Smith National Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to, www.edwardsfuneralhome.com