James Leak

Jim was born in 1928 to Garland and Cora Leak. He and his older sister Monnell grew up in Oklahoma City, and their dad worked for the Frisco Railroad. Sadly, Garland died of cancer when he was 57; Jim was only 17 years old when his dad passed away. Jim described these years as very difficult for him and his family. He was now responsible for caring for his widowed mother, and was looking ahead to his future as well. He wanted to obtain a degree in business, and so he began working to put himself through school. At this point, his future career began to take shape! Even as a young boy, he was a salesman at heart with an entrepreneurial spirit and started several different enterprises to earn money for himself. He would even advertise to neighbors and local businesses! When it was time to find a job, he told the owner of Allen's shoe store that he would work without pay until he could prove that he would be successful, and he certainly was. During this time he began his studies at Oklahoma City University. In 1950, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business. Soon after he completed his studies, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. From 1951 to 1953 he was on active duty, and then served in the Reserves until 1959. He achieved the rank of Captain. He was very proud of his service and believed "once a Marine always a Marine." He always maintained his Marine haircut, and later took great delight in waking up his daughters by imitating his drill instructors. During the time he was serving in the reserves, he began his career in the insurance industry with Traveler's Insurance. After working for them for a few years, they informed him that he would have to leave Oklahoma to work in one of their corporate offices if he wanted to advance his career. He knew that he did not want to leave Oklahoma. He described this as a turning point for his life and career. It was at this point his initiative and passion for sales prompted him to start his own business. In 1955, James Leak Insurance opened its doors. He successfully operated his business for 45 years until retiring in 2000. The decision to stay in Oklahoma was a blessing both professionally and personally. In 1964, Jim met Carol in their singles group at Trinity Baptist Church. They dated for three years. Carol remembers on her birthday in 1967, she was hoping for an engagement ring. Instead, she received a top of the line Polaroid camera. Carol was not that impressed; Jim got the hint, and proposed! They have been happily married for the last 51 years, and have two daughters, Stephanie and Amy. How do you summarize a life of 90 years? Jim would most likely say faith and family. Jim is a devoted follower of Christ and loved to study the Bible and share his faith. In recent years, he would often say that looking back over his life he can see how God's hand has guided him and provided for him through every trial and every triumph. He was immeasurably grateful for his family and believed that they were one of God's greatest blessings. He was most thankful for the hope he has because of his faith in Christ. "I'm 90 years old, and my life is over. It's been a good life. I have been blessed. I have a beautiful family. I'm ready to go. I don't want people to mourn for me. We will see each other again soon. I'm ready to be with Jesus." Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is the Lord. Jeremiah 17:7