James Allen McCumber

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(June 12, 1935 - Oct. 22, 2016)

James Allen McCumber died peacefully surrounded by his family on Oct. 22, 2016, at Spirit Mountain Hospice. He was 81.

Allen was born June 12, 1935, to Faye E. and Irene (Allen) McCumber. He was born at his grandparents’ house on Cody Avenue and went to school in Cody, graduating in 1954.  

He married the love of his life Frances (Fran) Blakesley on Dec. 20, 1953, at the Methodist Church in Cody. To this union were born Kay, Chuck, Bob and Dennis.  

Allen started his working life at J.C. Penney, followed by farming and several other jobs. He found his niche by starting his own business, McCumber Locksmith in 1972. He was one of the most well known locksmiths in the Basin and served several years as president of the Wyoming Locksmith Association. Allen was also past grand master of Wyoming Odd Fellows and past grand patriarch of the Grand Encampment of Wyoming. He was a member of the Methodist Church for over 60 years.  

Allen was enthusiastic about everything he did. He was an avid outdoorsman — hunting and fishing with his family.  

He was creative his whole life, being a talented artist with photography, stained glass, and woodworking among other pursuits. “Gramps” took particular joy in his family and was very proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who love him dearly. Everyone who had the chance or need of Allen’s locksmith services can attest to his passion for helping others and locksmithing.

Allen is survived by his wife Frannie; siblings Gene (Bobbie) and Wyoma; children Kay (Evan) Mathews, Chuck (Sandy), and Robert (Leanne); numerous nieces and nephews; seven grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.  

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jimmy and Alva (Isham) Allen and Charles and Carrie McCumber, his parents, sisters Marla and Millie, brother Paul, and infant son Dennis.  

Services will be at the Cody United Methodist Church at 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery immediately following the ceremony.  

Arrangements were made by Ballard Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to the Spirit Mountain Hospice or IOOF Eye Bank.

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