With broken hearts, we announce the passing of Jacob Keith Owen Ketchum, of McAlester, Oklahoma, who departed this life on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the young age of 26. Jacob was a beloved son, father, brother, grandson, and friend whose vibrant spirit touched everyone who knew him.
Born on August 3, 1998, in McAlester, Oklahoma, Jacob was the cherished son of Franklin Neil Ketchum and Tammy (Moore) Ketchum. He graduated from Indianola High School in 2016, where his determination, humor, and heart began to shape the strong, compassionate man he would become.
Jacob’s life was marked by hard work, integrity, and service to his community. He served with dedication at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary for three years before continuing his career as a skilled machinist at Berry Global Plastics Corporation, where he made lasting friendships and earned the respect of his colleagues.
Above all, Jacob’s proudest role was that of a loving father to his beloved son, Nash Presley Franklin Ketchum. His devotion to Nash was unwavering, and he found his greatest joy in being a dad. His Christian faith remained central throughout his life, guiding his actions and giving him strength. He was a devoted member of Indianola Baptist Church, where he was baptized and developed lifelong bonds in his faith community.
Jacob was a man of many passions. A talented gamer and coder, he spent countless hours creating and exploring virtual worlds. His sharp wit and playful sense of humor made him a joy to be around, always bringing smiles and laughter to family and friends. Jacob had a deep appreciation for country living—fishing, enjoying the outdoors, and soaking in the peacefulness of nature. Music was his constant companion, and his soulful voice often filled the air with songs of faith and joy. Known also for his cooking, Jacob loved to gather family and friends around the table, nourishing their hearts and souls with his meals and company.
Jacob’s legacy is one of kindness, loyalty, faith, and boundless love. He leaves behind memories that will forever warm the hearts of those who knew him.
Jacob is survived by his mother, Tammy Ketchum of the home; his cherished son, Nash Presley Franklin Ketchum; and Nash’s mother, Victoria Diana Albanese. He is also survived by his beloved grandmother, Minnie Crenshaw of McAlester; his sister, Katie Talley and husband Jacob of McAlester; his brothers, Kayleb Ketchum and fiancée Jessica Simpson of McAlester, Shane Moore and wife Miranda of Ft. Cobb, and Travis Moore and wife Ginger of Stratford; uncles, Billy Ketchum and wife Lisa of Ulan, Robbie Moore and wife Lori of Albion; aunt, Kimberly Moore of Big Cedar; great-uncle, Don Ketchum and wife Alice of McAlester; along with numerous extended family members and dear friends.
He now joins in rest his father, Franklin Neil Ketchum; his uncle, Kendall Owen Ketchum; his paternal grandfather, Franklin D. “Pookie” Ketchum; and maternal grandparents, Robert Moore and Linda Moore.
Family and friends are invited to gather in Jacob’s memory during visitation from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at Bishop Funeral Service and Crematory. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 21, 2025, at Choate Prairie Cemetery in Indianola, Oklahoma, officiated by Rev. Mike Perry and Rev. Bart Effinger.
Serving as pallbearers will be Josh Thames, Kirby Ketchum, Jacob “L.J.” Cunningham, Kayleb Ketchum, Bill Montgomery, Jr., Jacob Talley, and Michael Ivey. Honorary pallbearers include Mike Shropshire, Wyatt Shropshire, Gary Romine, and Chad Sager.
Jacob’s life was a gift to all who knew him, and though gone too soon, his spirit will live on through the love he shared and the lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace.
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