James E. Terrell, 77, a resident of Lake Waukomis, MO passed away Thursday, July 16, 2020, under hospice care with his loving family by his side. Jim was born December 29, 1942 to Earl “Arthur” and Susan (Tevis) Terrell in Warrensburg, MO.
Jim is a veteran of the United States Army and served his country during the Vietnam Era.
Jim spent the majority of his working career as a Purchasing Manager for Coopers Animal Health and later Trans World Airlines (TWA) and American Airlines. He retired from the airlines after 20+ years of service. Shortly after his retirement, Jim started Flooring Direct of KC; a family owned flooring business with his son, Chris.
He enjoyed starting his mornings being a porch monkey on his back deck, drinking a cup of coffee and taking in the calmness of the lake. Jim enjoyed cooking and bar-b-queuing for his family and friends. His granddaughters: Lauren and Lexi, say their “Grandpa” cooked the BEST food ever. Jim was much more then a Grandpa to them he was their best friend and helped them both through many life issues as he did many others.
Jim also enjoyed traveling earlier on with Debby and loved Colorado and Kauai. He loved spending quality time with the love of his life Debby, Chris, Lauren and Lexi. A quote by C. M. Christensen might be a good description of Jim’s family and friends – as they meant the world to him: “The single most important factor in our long-term happiness is the relationships we have with our family and close friends.”
Jim loved his family, but also loved fishing. He was an avid fisherman; who enjoyed participating in and winning many tournaments or leisurely taking the family out for a quiet time on the lake. The biggest attribute of Jim was his loyalty to his family and friends. Jim cared for Debby for the last 12 years at home while she suffered from Alzheimer’s, currently with ending stages Alzheimer’s. Jim never complained nor asked for any help as he cared for her, he attended to the business and household needs, fishing when he could and always being there for his son and grandkids or friends. To say Jim was a rock to all was an understatement.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Deborah (Vandiver) Terrell; son, Chris Terrell (fiancé Amy Schneider); two beautiful granddaughters Lauren and Lexi Terrell; a sister, Sophie Bryant (husband Bob); and special friend, Rodger Crews.
A Gathering and Sharing of Memories celebrating Jim’s life will be held from 5:00 ~ 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at Meyers Northland Chapel 401 Main Street Parkville, MO. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, July 23, 2020 with Military Honors under auspice of the United States Army at Terrace Park Cemetery. Due to COVID-19 wearing a facial mask will be required at the chapel and graveside. In lieu of flowers Memorial Contributions are suggested to Alzheimer’s Association and may be left in the care of the funeral chapel. Memories of Jim and condolences to the family may be shared at meyersfuneralchapel.com
It was sad news to hear of Jim’s passing and I wish his family well during this time of sorrow.
As you probably know, Jim and I were good friends during high school, but kind of went our separate ways after we graduated. We would see each other occasionally at class reunions and have an opportunity to visit which I always enjoyed.
Jim called me two or three months ago and we talked for a couple of hours. I really appreciated the conversation and the chance to catch up.
Unfortunately, I won’t be able to attend his services as my wife has some out patient surgery on that day and I must go with her to drive.
Again, I wish the family well and will be praying for you.
It is with heavy heart that I write about my friend Jim. At one time as kids, I lived next door to him and sister, Sophie. In my teen years would cover the dairy for his family while they went on vacation. In latter years, would see him when he came by our class reunion at Duane Williams. He was normally getting there toward the end of our reunion as he had been out in a fishing tournament. He called me a couple months ago just to shoot the breeze with was very enjoyable. We talked about the past and he spoke fondly of his family. I consider Jim an old and dear friend and sure we will meet again in the next life. The world is a better place thanks to my fellow veteran. Unable to attend the funeral due to being so far away in Louisiana.
This breaks my heart to read of Jim’s passing. He was a great person and always kind and fun to be around. I worked with Jim at TWA and he helped me with an alcoholic boyfriend when I needed it. He will greatly be missed. Prayers for his family during this time of loss.
Sorry to hear about Jim’s passing. We shared a lot of Holden memories together. God bless his family. Loved the obituary. What a great husband, dad and grandpa he was!
Sorry for your loss. I too worked at TWA and my name is James Terrell as well; though I go by Jay (I grew up on Linden Rd., j6st around the corner from the Lake).
Funny story for the family: I worked in the engine test cell and answered the phone one day. “Test cell, Terrell”, as I stated my name. Your husband/dad/grand dad then asked me “how do you know its me?”, of course I did not! So we chit-chatted and realized we were both James Terrell! As I conduct business around the Platte Co area, merchants will pull up two James Terrells, and then i will tell them my address…
Thoughts and prayers.
So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing.
I worked with him at twa and we went on many fishing trips to tannycomo.
Prayers for the family.
Rip.
Sweet Sophie – I didn’t know Jim very well as he was ahead of me in school at Holden High, but I certainly know the sadness of losing a brother. I have lost two now. Reading about Jim tells me he was an extraordinary brother, husband, father and grandfather. Certainly a man to admire. May God comfort you during this time of sorrow and grant you His peace.
Jackie Worley Cunningham
My condolence’s to the family. I fished with Jim in the Bass Club. Fished with him several times. He was always a good guy, and always had a story to tell. My heart and prayers go out to you all at this sad time.
Sophie I thought a lot of Jim I was always glad when was at our class reunion. We always had a good time I certainly didn’t know he was dealing with cancer. I know you have great memories. Sorry I won’t be able to come to the visitation. Many prayers for his wife and family
We are very sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. We send our sympathy to friends, family; and our dear friends Sophie and Bob Bryant. May peace be with you as you celebrate Jim’s wonderful life.
So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. We worked together many years at Jen-Sal and had lots of good times there.
Jim and I kept in touch by telephone and an occasional lunch. I called him recently for expert advice on purchasing fishing equipment. He was one of the good guys and will really be missed.