Jimmy Leo Sweetwood passed away peacefully in his home on November 16, 2025, at the age of 77. Jim was a beloved husband, brother, uncle, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. Jim was especially proud of being a grandfather to his granddaughters, Andreya and Reigen. Jim changed the world for the people around him throughout his life, and he left the world a better place.
Jim was born on August 29th, 1948, in Enid, Oklahoma to Veon and Margaret Sweetwood. He attended Enid schools until graduating and then going on to complete his Bachelor’s Degree at Northwestern State University in Alva, Oklahoma and Master’s Degree in Human Relations from Oklahoma University in Norman, Oklahoma.
Jim traveled across the United States with his friends in his VW Van in the 60’s. He attended exponential band concerts throughout his adult life. If you named a 60’s, 70’s or 80’s band, he had attended their concert and had a story to go with it. He enjoyed vacationing at the National Parks, and he traveled to Europe. He played Men’s Softball up into his 60’s and was a trout fisherman most of his life.
Jim loved nature and all animals, especially wildlife and horses. He loved dogs and cats in his life. You would never find a more sympathetic and compassionate human being. If an animal had been hit by a car and was laying on the roadside, he would shed tears.
Jim chose his career to be a Juvenile Probation Officer for 36 years with the State of Oklahoma. He touched many young people’s lives, impacting the youth throughout their adulthood. Jim was a dedicated advocate for wayward youth. Jim always stood up for what he felt in his heart was right, especially for the “underdog” whether it be at a district meeting, or court hearing, and regardless of what anyone else might say or do. He fought for what was right even when it wasn’t the popular opinion.
Jim was a “confirmed bachelor” until he was 55. Jim and Teresa met while working together helping youth. Jim and Teresa’s first “date” was going to the Oklahoma State Fair together. After having so much fun that day, they decided to make a whole life together. They married in Las Vegas then made their home in Norman, Oklahoma. Yearning for the mountains, they moved to Salida, Colorado in 2020. Jim and Teresa recently celebrated 22 years of marriage. Jim was Teresa’s rock, hero, confidant, and best friend. He gave her love, joy and made her laugh, she will never be the same person without him. Jim’s greatest happiness was being “Old Pa” to his two granddaughters, Andreya and Reigen. He provided them with unconditional love, support, and direction.
Jim was preceded in death by his grandparents, who always had a special place in his heart, Harry and Delca Sweetwood, and Carl and Bertha Kessel. His nephew Shane Sweetwood. And by his beloved pets, his Spitz, Moe, his Cocker Spaniel, Bo, and his ginger Tabby Cat, Martin; Survived by his wife, Teresa Sweetwood, his sister, Connie Hietbrink, his brother, Terry Sweetwood. His beloved granddaughters, Andreya Miller and Reigen Miller. Nephews, Eric Ballard and Nick Ballard; Shawn, Logan and Gavin Sweetwood: Two Great- Grandchildren, Numerous cousins, great nieces and nephews. And his two cats, Little and Gizmo.
Jim was a strong force of nature, a “truth-storian,” and he will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 1 to 3 pm at the Enid Brewing Company, 125 S. Independence Avenue, in Enid, Oklahoma. If you can attend, please share stories and memories with his family and friend.
Please visit www.lewisandglenn.com for any updates.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Jimmy Leo Sweetwood, please visit our Tree Store.
