James McKearney

James D. Big Jim McKearney, 72, of Clifton passed away March 10, 2011 in Safford. Big Jim worked in Clifton as a butcher, as a deputy for Sheriff Bobby Gomez and at Fort Grant as an officer until he was forced into medical retirement in 1972. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was often called to cook on trail rides with Search and Rescue and was a lifetime member of the Elks. James is survived by his wife of 30 years, Alice, son James of Tucson, daughter Donna (Anthony) Encinas of Morenci, son John Guerra, daughter Teresa (Lloyd) Waters of York Valley, brothers John (Judy) McKearney of Tucson, Joe (Barbara) McKearney and Dick (Kate) McKearney of Sierra Vista, Herb (Mary Jane) McKearney of Illinios, and sister Joyce Bates of Michigan, 11 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and numerous nieces & nephews. As requested by James, no services are planned at this time.