James K. Scott

James K. "Jim" Scott,72, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away Thursday, June 11, 2026, at his home, lovingly surrounded by his family, while leaving behind a life marked by faith, service, intellectual curiosity, and deep devotion to those he loved.

He was born March 24, 1954, in Omaha, NE, to Harold and Virginia (Mayberry) Scott, parents who instilled in him the values of honesty, kindness, perseverance, and respect for others. From his father, he learned integrity and the importance of doing what was right even when it was difficult. From his mother, he inherited empathy, creativity, a love of learning, and a lifelong appreciation for food, cooking, and the wonders of the world. Most importantly, they gave him a foundation of faith in God that guided him throughout his life.

Jim's life was woven from two enduring threads: family and work. Though distinct, together they formed the rich tapestry of a life well lived. Faith was the cornerstone of Jim's life. He was a devoted follower of Christ and an active member of The Crossing Church. Earlier in his ministry journey, he faithfully served as Youth Minister at Parkview Christian Church for ten years, guiding and mentoring young people during formative seasons of their lives. His commitment to Christian service, discipleship, and sharing God's love remained a defining part of his character throughout his life.

As a husband, father, grandfather, educator, and friend, Jim understood that life's greatest blessings were found in relationships. On April 7, 1974, he married Jane Peterson, his highschool sweetheart. Jane’s strength, faith, wisdom, and steadfast love anchored both Jim and their family, throughout their 52 years of marriage. He often described himself as the luckiest of men for having spent his life with her.

Jim was a devoted father to his son, Josh, and daughter, Kate. He often spoke of the pride he felt in the adults they became. Josh's intellect, curiosity, and commitment to justice inspired him, while Kate's compassion, keen insight, and warmth brought him immense joy. Though Jim readily acknowledged the imperfections and mistakes that come with parenthood, he considered being their father among the greatest privileges of his life. He treasured memories of family, friends, travels, shared books, and meaningful conversations.

A lifelong learner, Jim earned degrees from Ozark Bible College and Southwest Missouri State University before completing his Ph.D. at the University of Missouri.

Professionally, Jim devoted much of his life to education and international engagement. He took great pride in helping create and expand international student programs at the University of Missouri, opening doors for students from around the world and fostering cross-cultural understanding. His academic work stimulated his imagination, satisfied his boundless curiosity, and provided opportunities to mentor younger generations.

Among the many highlights of his career were opportunities to participate in international events involving Nobel Peace Prize laureates Archbishop Desmond Tutu and John Hume. He valued not only the achievements of his work but also the friendships formed along the way. Colleagues became trusted friends and kindred spirits who shared his commitment to service, learning, and human dignity.

Jim was a man of ideas, faith, and thoughtful reflection. He understood that institutions and organizations could be imperfect places, yet he sought to navigate them with integrity and a servant's heart. He believed that meaningful work required sacrifice, perseverance, and faithfulness, even when recognition was absent. He trusted that the ultimate measure of a life was not found in worldly accolades but in service to God and others.

Throughout his life, Jim remained deeply grateful—for family, friendships, meaningful work, and the grace of God. His Christian faith sustained him through triumphs and challenges alike. In his final reflections, he expressed a heartfelt desire that faith would continue to guide and strengthen those he loved.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Jane, of the home in Columbia, MO; their children, Joshua Scott (Julie) of Leawood, Kansas and Kate Wolfmeyer (Fred) of Fenton, Missouri; four grandchildren; Sage and Jill Scott, and Alyssa and Zach Wolfmeyer, a brother, Tom Scott (Carol) of Minnetonka, MN, nieces, nephews, extended family; and many dear friends, colleagues, and former students whose lives he touched. His legacy lives on through the values he embodied, the people he mentored, the family he cherished, and the countless lives enriched by his kindness, wisdom, and example.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Susan Hokanson and a brother George Scott.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Veritas program (the Crossing Church’s outreach program to MU students) https://veritascomo.com/Give/veritas-general, The City of Refuge, https://cityofrefugecolumbia.org/donate/, or to the University of Missouri, International Student and Scholar Fund or the Study Abroad Scholarship Fund, https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/73465/donations/new.

Words of comfort and support may be shared at the visitation, Friday, June 26, 2026, 3:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. at the Crossing Church, 3615 Southland Dr., Columbia, MO 65201. A celebration of life will follow at 4:00p.m.