Wright - James "J.O."  Slattery, 82, died September 2, 2023 in Dodge City.  He was born on January 3, 1941 at Spearville, the son of Patrick James and Bernice (Tully) Slattery.

James married Donna Louise Vandehey on April 20, 1963 in Compton, California; she preceded him in death on May 23, 2011. He later married Donita Anderson on August 26, 2014 in Larned; she survives. James loved working for EMS. He was also very proud of his time serving in the United States Navy on the USS Maddox during the Vietnam War. James loved spending time with his family; his grandchildren brought him the most joy.

James was a member of St. Andrews Catholic Church in Wright. He was also a member of the American Legion as well as Howard Gotschall V.F.W. Post #1714.

He is survived by son, Tom Slattery and wife Bridget of Thomas, Oklahoma; daughter, Lisa Slattery of Grove, Oklahoma; daughter in law, Shannon Slattery of Larned; five sisters, Mary Smith of Wright, Rose Ann Swinger of Edmond, Oklahoma, Patricia Hornung of Frisco, Texas, Sandy Montgomery of Yukon, Oklahoma, and Betty Burgess of Frisco, Texas; sisters in law: Kenna Slattery of Dodge City, and Carol St. Thomas of Fernley, Nevada; eight grandchildren, Connor Slattery, Corbin Slattery, Jeremiah Slattery, Ricky Slattery, Christopher Slattery, Christian Slattery, Aaron Clare, and Ashleigh Slattery; as well as three great grandchildren, Nathaniel Slattery, Riley Clare and Madi Clare. James was preceded in death by two sons, Mark Owen Slattery and James L. Slattery; his parents, Patrick and Bernice; one brother, Charlie Slattery; and one sister, Ellen Gall.

Funeral service will be held at St. Andrews Catholic Church in Wright on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at 2:00 PM with Rev. Ted Stoecklein presiding; a rosary will be prayed prior to the service at 1:30 PM.  Burial will follow at St. Andrew's Cemetery in Wright with military honors presented by the United States Navy Honor Guard and the SWKS Veterans' Funeral Honor Guard.  Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Chapel in Dodge City on Friday, September 8, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Wounded Warrior Project in care of the funeral home.  Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.