James Richard Finley, Jr.

James Richard Finley, Jr., age 63, of Omaha, passed away peacefully at his residence on Friday, July 25, 2025.

A loving father, brother, son, mentor, and a hero to many a cowboy, James lived his life with purpose, grit, and heart. A lifelong rodeo cowboy, he dedicated his free time to the arena, always chasing the fastest time. His passion for rodeo earned him a championship title in Finley, Oklahoma, in 1997 for steer wrestling. In 2005, he continued his legacy as the Steer Wrestling Director for the UPRA, guiding and inspiring others with his wisdom and experience.

James was a dear friend, a devoted brother, a proud and loving father, and above all, a true cowboy. Whether it was roping, riding, or wrestling, James didn’t just participate—he competed with heart and mentored with passion. His influence and encouragement shaped the lives of many in and out of the arena.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara White Finley, and his beloved wife, Debra Lynn Black.

James is survived by his three children: Jared and wife Frankie Finley, Jade and wife Holly Finley, and Heather and husband Ace Reynolds; six grandchildren: Natalee Finley, Skylar Finley, Christian Ackley, Deven Lott, Cory Torres, and Benny Torres; his father, James Richard Finley, Sr., and wife Rebecca; and his siblings: Johnna Reynolds, Jamie Finley, Jemalyn and husband Barry Pynes, Donald “Dusty” and wife Hilary Holley, Amie and husband Mike Facente, and Hunter and wife Jessica Holley.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Clarksville Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, July 31, 2025, in the Lindeman Chapel of Clarksville Funeral Home. Burial will follow at New Haven Cemetery under the direction of Clarksville Funeral Home.

Serving as pallbearers are James Jared Finley, Jeremiah Jade Finley, Ace Reynolds, Dusty Hill, Steve Ross, and Doug Palmore. Honorary pallbearers are Benny Wainscott and Jase Norwood.

James leaves behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and cowboy grit. His memory will ride on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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