Mary "Janie" Jane James

Mary Jane “Janie” Immerthal James, 91, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026. She was born on July 19, 1934, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Ed and Thelma Immerthal. An only child, Janie carried a strong sense of independence and determination throughout her life.

She was raised in Columbia, Missouri, where she attended Hickman High School. A proud Kewpie, she was deeply involved in music and the performing arts, playing leads in musicals, percussion in the marching band, and being honored as May Queen. She continued her education at Stephens College before completing her studies at the University of Missouri, where she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority.

In June 1957, she married the love of her life, Jerry James, beginning a partnership that would define much of her life until his passing in 2013. Together, they built a life centered on family, home, and shared experiences in Liberty Missouri.

Janie was an elementary music teacher before becoming a full-time mother. She created a structured, lively home where expectations were clear and love was shown in steady, unwavering ways. Headstrong and independent, she believed in doing things right, held high standards, and made it known, in no uncertain terms, who was in charge. She was a disciplinarian in all the right ways, shaping her family with strength, consistency, and deep commitment.

Her love of music remained a constant throughout her life, including her involvement in her church choir at Liberty Christian Church, where she found joy in singing and community.

As her children left the nest, Janie and Jerry headed west to Keystone Colorado, a place she would call home for many years.

Janie had a remarkable eye for design and a passion for creating beautiful, welcoming spaces. She loved decorating and used her talent in building many homes in Keystone. She brought her vision and attention to detail into every space she touched.

She found happiness in the rhythms of daily life—walking the roads of Keystone Ranch, spending time on the golf course, and listening to the rhythm of the Snake River from her backyard.

She is survived by her children: Joe (Sally), Jay (Shelley), and Jill (Andy Winchester). She was a proud grandmother to Sarah McVey (Kevin), Katy Rimer (James), Charlie Skjervem, Jack Skjervem, and Anna Mutzbauer (Justin), and a cherished great-grandmother to Georgia, Ruby, Maggie and Molly.

Janie will be remembered for her strength, her sharp sense of self, her creativity, and her unwavering devotion to her family.

A celebration of life will be held on May 27th at 4pm at the National Golf Club of KC. 6700 N National Drive. Parkville MO 64152.