James Hyungsoon Im

He was born in Tokyo, Japan to parents, Chuljae Im and Chulshim Jung. He was the eldest of 4 boys. He had an adventurous, entrepreneurial spirit and a tender eye for Young M. Im (née Song), whom he persistently courted until she finally agreed to marry him more than 60 years ago. James arrived in Mississippi with $20 in his pocket and was later joined by his wife and their 2 young children, Sandra and Stephen. There they charted a new life in the United States of America as James dreamed of offering every possibility and opportunity to his family. Soon they were again blessed with the arrival of their 3rd child, Judy. With faith-filled courage and determination, he built his import wig and retail stores and janitorial business in Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi while raising his young family.

He settled down permanently in San Antonio, Texas for the last 28 years of his life and lovingly started a new chapter. His eyes twinkled with joy while playing with his grandchildren and passing on his faith and wisdom. He fished, cooked, and tended the family garden of fresh vegetables. He taught himself how to play the drums and graced his home and Church with his steady drumbeat. James enjoyed and appreciated the camaraderie and fellowship of the members of the First Korean Presbyterian Church, worshiping there on Sundays and studying the Bible with his devout prayer group.

His family will greatly miss him. With unwavering love and care, he managed the everyday details of the household with grace. Through his quiet strength, courage, and selfless commitment, he ensured that the busy lives of his loved ones were supported, allowing them to pursue their dreams without restraint in a land that was completely foreign to him decades ago. He leaves behind a legacy of love and hope- a legacy vividly reflected in his children and grandchildren as they proceed forth with the spirit of his courage, determination, perseverance, and faith in our Lord no matter the uncertainty and challenges.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Chuljae Im and Chulshim Jung, and 2 brothers, Heungsoon and Sangsoon Im. He is survived by his loving wife, Young M. Im; daughter, Sandra (Saodung) and children, Amanda and Samuel; son, Stephen (Michelle) and children, Joshua and Cristian; daughter, Judy (Ray); brother, Steve Kyesoon Im of Little Rock, Arkansas (Myong Sook Im) and their children, Lucy, Sonya, Patricia, and Esther; and the loving spouse of Sangsoon Im, Kyungja Im, and their children, Duk, Stacy, and Samantha.

The family wishes to thank the First Korean Presbyterian Church for the years of fellowship and friendship they provided James Im.

A funeral service will be officiated by Rev. Peter Jeong at First Korean Presbyterian Church on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 4:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to First Korean Presbyterian Church at 4115 Eisenhauer Road, San Antonio, Tx, 78218.