JIM BARTON FINLEY

Jim Barton Finley passed away on April 5th, 2024. He was born to Wilma and Leo Finley on June 16, 1928, in Miami, Oklahoma. He was a sweet and loving man who adored his family deeply. In 1951, he married Rose (Rosie) Marie Shelton in Norman, Oklahoma, and together they shared a life of memories, adventure, and love. Jim was a graduate of the University of Oklahoma as a mechanical engineer and worked for 36 years for the Los Alamos National Laboratories. He was a dedicated father to Gail, Jim, and Linda, instilling in them the values of laughter and adventure. In addition to his commitment to family, Jim had a passion for the great outdoors, specifically fishing, camping, and hunting. Jim will be remembered for his endless sense of humor, his love of animals, and his long dedication to volunteering at the Wildlife Center in Espanola. He also volunteered at Bandelier National Monument and loved guiding many curious visitors around that magical area. He was also known as the “White Rock Snake Man” for safely relocating many rattlesnakes from area yards. His presence brought laughter and light to the lives of all who knew him. He is survived by his loving children and grandchildren, Lee, Canace, and Sawyer, plus his 2 great-grandchildren, Thomas and Georgia. A memorial service to honor and celebrate Jim’s life will be held in the near future (you’ll hear about it!). Friends and family are invited to attend and share in the memories of a remarkable man who touched the hearts of many. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Espanola Wildlife Center (www.newmexicowildlifecenter.org), a cause that was dear to Jim and Rosie’s hearts. Our father will be deeply missed, but he will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.