1945 - 2025
James Marion Foraker, Jr., 80, of Aiken, South Carolina, previously of Wichita, Kansas, passed away Monday morning, November 24, 2025, at his home with family.
Born March 1, 1945, in Wichita, he was the son of James Marion, Sr., and Dorothy Mae (Ward) Foraker. He grew up and received his education primarily in Wichita as well. He joined the United States Army on February 10, 1965,and proudly served his country during Vietnam. He received two Purple Hearts and was honorably discharged on May 31, 1968.
He was united in marriage to Patricia Louise Elwood on June 3rd, 1986 (Originally on a sleepy dusty delta day). The couple made their home in Wichita where they owned and operated Stardust automotive upholstery business for many years. Following retirement in 2012, the couple moved to Houston, Texas and later, Aiken, South Carolina.
Jim was a member of Newspring Church in Wichita and was a Master Mason and a Shriner. He enjoyed car shows, going to the movies, playing golf and spending time with family.
His family includes his wife Patricia of Aiken, SC; his six children, Shelly Foraker of Tulsa, OK; Connie and Donald Heslop of Yates Center, KS; James Foraker, III of Wichita, KS; Lindsy and Jerry VanNess of Rocky Mount, VA; Dustin and Heather Foraker of Hudson, IN; Jesse Foraker and Christa Meeker of Wichita, KS; grandchildren, Justin, Derek, Heather, Steven, Cordelia, Adelina, Nicholas, Ethan, and Matthew; three great-grandchildren as well, Gavin, Walker, and Ryker; and two sisters, Kathy and Allen Ivey of Arkansas; and Tizzie Foraker of Wichita.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 P.M., Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield. Interment and Military Committal Honors will follow at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to any Shriners Children’s Hospital. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.
