of Osceola, AR
November 1, 1941 - February 3, 2025
James L. McFatridge II, 83, of Osceola, AR passed away peacefully at his home on February 3, 2025. He was born on November 1, 1941 in Bassett, AR to James and Blanche McFatridge.
James dedicated 48 years of hard work as a maintenance supervisor at Viskase in Osceola, earning the respect and admiration of those around him. Beyond his career, he found joy in refereeing local high school football and basketball games, a role he embraced with enthusiasm. A devoted sports fan, he cheered passionately for the Arkansas Razorbacks, St. Louis Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys. He was a member of the Osceola First United Methodist Church.
He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Betty McFatridge; his children, Becky, Michelle and Michael; his beloved grandchildren, Noah, Makenzie, Blake, Whitley Jo, Jay, Cole, Jon, Jordan, Jessica and Taylor and his cherished great-grandchildren. James also leaves behind a close-knit community of nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Blanche; his sisters, Joyce Ann and Shirley Faye and his children, Mack, Carol Lee and Mark.
A Visitation will be held at Roller-Swift Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A graveside service will be held at Mississippi County Memorial Gardens on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 11:00 am.
James's absence will be deeply felt, but his legacy of love and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
James was a good friend and a dedicated employee. Our prayers are with his family. He will definitely be missed.
Sorry for the loss of a smart man! Enjoyed he time we spent and talked together here on this earth-He enjoyed his job, and we spoke about it every Sunday at church!
RIP-Your friend Don
We were saddened to read of James passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Betty and the family and friends of his.
So sorry to hear of his passing I worked with James at Viskase and we shared family!! You all are in my thoughts and prayers
Many prayers for this family. James Mac will be missed. Had many great conversations with him, he took many like me under his wing. I’ll be thinking of the family during this difficult time.
We were so sorry to hear about James. Our prayers are with the family. Danny enjoyed refereeing with James back in the day!!
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Praying for you and your family. God bless.
Great guy, always loved refereeing basketball games with him
So sorry to hear about your loss. Sending prayers for your comfort. Rest in the knowledge that James was loved and will be missed by many.
Always a fun guy to be around. Great sense of humor and at the same time very knowledge in the machines and mechanics that kept Viskase running. For years he bested me with wagers every time the NCAA tournament rolled around. He could always pick winners. He will be missed.
So sorry for your loss James will truly be missed I considered him a good friend for 40 years. He was always there to lend an ear.
I am so sadden to hear this new. Please know the family are in my prayers.
Hey Mrs.Betty, Folanda from Dr.Thakor office that always helped you with his paperwork, so sorry to hear my condolences to you and your family.
I worked with James 47 years at Viskase. He and I locked Horns a few times but every time we did he always came to me and we worked things out. He was a great man and I enjoyed working with him. He was Mr. Viskase he took his job serious. He is going to be missed.
I was deeply saddened to hear of James's passing. As a friend and colleague on the Osceola Planning Commission, James's wisdom and kindness left a lasting impact on me. He was a dedicated supporter and I knew I could always count on him when needed. May God provide peace and comfort to the family.
Praying for the Family and his friends.James has always worked hard and was a very sweet person.
I am so sorry to hear this. You will all be in my prayers.
I worked for this man for over 20 years. He was tough, but fair, and you always knew he had your back. He has been missed, and will be for a long time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. May you all have comfort . The Douglass'
So sorry for your loss. Praying for all of you.
James was a very caring person; he took great care of his workers. His smile will always be remembered at Viskase. I was James Maintenance Administrator and he thought I could do anything when it comes to a computer. He would always tell the maintenance guys: give it to Candice, she'll take care of you, and I did just that. James will be truly missed.
- Candice Collins
Betty, my condolences to you and your family. James Lehman was my classmate and teammate at Shawnee High School. May God’s grace provide you and your family peace and comfort during this difficult time.
I'm so sorry for your loss! Ya'll are in my thoughts and prayers