Oklahoma trainer James Doolin died September 26.

© Richard Chamberlain

He was born on July 22, 1950, to James Ethan Doolin and LaVerna Christine (Anderson) Doolin in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Jimmy graduated from Gore High School with the class of 1968. He then attended Connors State College and St. Gregory’s University on a baseball scholarship.

Jimmy was a trainer with more than $1.27 million in earnings. He saddled the likes of Heritage Place Derby(G1) winner Spit Curl Jess, Heritage Place Futurity(G1) winner Turbine Jet and Heritage Palce Futurity(RG10 winner Imafastermaster.

He was a member of Faith Church in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Jimmy was an avid OU and OKC Thunder fan and enjoyed watching every game he could. He loved going hunting and fishing and always caught his limit on fish every time he went. Jimmy’s mischievous grin and sense of humor will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and LaVerna Doolin; and sister, Elizabeth Henderson.

Jimmy is survived by his daughter, Jamie Griffin; his son, Jimmy Doolin; his grandsons, Jonathan Griffin and Mason Griffin; his brother, Howard Doolin and wife Leta; his nieces and nephews, Danny Doolin and wife Sherri, Melanee Ballard and husband Mike, Kathy Miller and husband Larry, Terry Sloan and husband Steve, and Kristi Taylor and husband Billy; and several great nieces and nephews, other family members and friends.

A celebration of Jimmy’s life was held September 28 in Gore, Oklahoma, with Kyle Taylor and Cody Sloan officiating. Pallbearers were Steve Sloan, Billy Taylor, Mike Ballard, Danny Doolin, Kyle Taylor, Cody Sloan and Larry Miller.