Jimmy Lee Jobe was born on May 7, 1938, at Methodist Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas, to the late George Ervin Jobe and Lucile (Reagan) Jobe. He grew up in Fort Worth, where his strong work ethic was evident from an early age—throwing newspapers for the Star-Telegram starting at age 9, a job he kept throughout high school.
Jimmy attended Texas Christian University, earning an Associate’s degree before moving to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to begin a career in accounting with Amoco Oil and Gas. In 1966, a blind date arranged by a co-worker changed the course of his life. That’s when he met Peggy Tapman, a teacher who would later become the love of his life. They married in 1967 and made Tulsa their home, later welcoming their only daughter, Jaylyn.
Never one to sit still, Jimmy pursued a lifelong love of learning and building—literally. While working full-time at Amoco, he taught himself how to build houses with the help of a mentor and eventually built the family’s home in Broken Arrow, OK where they lived for many years. Homebuilding became a fulfilling side passion, and he constructed several homes over the years.
Jimmy retired from Amoco but never slowed down. A man of many interests, he found joy in golf, woodworking, photography, birdwatching, and—most notably—cycling. What began as a way to bond with his daughter blossomed into a deep passion. Jimmy participated in countless rides all over the United States – across the Northeast, Texas, Colorado, Seattle to San Francisco, and Oklahoma’s famed “Freewheel” tour, camping and pedaling while forming lifelong friendships. While his daughter eventually traded her bike for a driver’s license, Jimmy rode well into his 80s, cherishing the freedom, connection, and beauty the road offered.
He and Peggy also shared a love of travel, often venturing down scenic back roads or traveling abroad together. But of all the things Jimmy cherished—family, hobbies, adventure—it was friendship that meant the most. If you were lucky enough to be considered a friend of Jimmy’s, you knew you had a loyal companion for life.
Jimmy is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Peggy; his daughter Jaylyn Welch and her husband Mark of McKinney, Texas; and his beloved grandchildren, Matthew and Katie Welch. He is also survived by sister-n-law, Donna Jobe, nephews, Bryan Jobe (wife Camille, and great-nephews Cooper and Patton) of Austin, and Reagan Jobe (wife Lisa) of Fort Worth. He was preceded in death by his son, Alan Lee Jobe, and brother, Charles Ervin Jobe.
Jimmy's life was a testament to kindness, curiosity, constant learning and quiet strength. He will be remembered for his humor, humility, and the unwavering love he gave to those lucky enough to know him.
A celebration of life with be held at 1:00 pm, Friday, September 5th, 2025, at First United Methodist Church located at 315 N Church Street, McKinney, Texas 75069. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in honor of Jimmy to your favorite charity.