James E. Diamond

Ret. M/Sgt. J.E. Diamond, 79, residing in Lee’s Summit, MO passed peacefully on July 3, 2014. Funeral Service will be Wed., July 9, 2014 at 2pm, Visitation 12:30-2 Prior to Service; McGilley & George Funeral Home, Belton, MO. Burial in the West Union Cemetery. Contributions, American Cancer Society.

Born on July 16, 1934, near Cleveland, MO., Jim grew up in Cass County, graduating from Freeman High School. He married Sally Tomkins on Dec. 13, 1958.

He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on Feb. 11, 1954. He was assigned to the 44th Bomb Squadron, 40th Bomb Wing, Smoky Hill AFB, KS; then was deployed TDY to England on 3 occasions, 1955, 1957, and 1958. While on TDY at Greenham Common on July 4, 1957, he met Sally Tomkins. He was promoted to M/Sgt. in June 1971. Jim retired after 20 years active duty at Offutt AFB, Nebraska. Jim was an engineer for Missouri Pacific Railroad from 1974-97.

He is survived by wife Sally of the home; children, Curtis (Lisa), Shelley (Randy), Allan (Karla), David, and Daniel (Staci); 5 grandchildren, Alexandra, Jack, Emma, Xavier, Elijah; brothers, Raymond (Goldie), Ray (Colleen), Ernie, Frank (Nancy); and the many family and friends made throughout his life.

“To live in hearts we leave behind is never to die”

Arrangements under the direction of McGilley and George Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Belton, MO.