James "Jim” Karl Larsen

Jim was the father of Jessica (Chase) Mitchum and Justin (Maggie) Larsen, and the grandfather of June Merlyne and Rheese David. He was preceded in death by his wife, Renée Larsen, with whom he built a family and shared many years of enjoyable memories.

Jim was also preceded in death by his parents, Charles “Chuck” Larsen and Merlyne “Mert” Thornton Larsen, and nephew Kage Archer Larsen. He is survived by his brother, Lars (Jamie) Larsen; nephews Karl (Heather), Kevin (Kristen), and Kyle (Courtney); and their mother, Linda (Kevin) Kilkenny. Although not related by blood, Jim also had many “brothers” he grew up with—friendships that lasted a lifetime and remained incredibly important to him.

In his younger years, Jim was known for being mischievous alongside his brother Lars and the many friends that became his “brothers,” creating the kind of stories that only got better with time. Years later, he could spend hours retelling these stories around a fire, usually with a great album playing in the background. Music was the soundtrack to many of Jim’s adventures and memories.

Jim collected hobbies; he may have had more hobbies than he had years to enjoy them. He loved tinkering, finding the latest gadget, and then proudly showing everyone exactly what it could do. His shop was rarely without a project, or several, taking up whatever space he could find.

After becoming a father, Jim documented countless moments through photographs and videos. Whether it was Renée, his children, their teams on the ball field, or friends, Jim was often behind the camera. Because of him, so many ordinary days became memories his family can still watch and relive years later. He also found joy in the simpler moments: sitting on the back porch with Renée in St. Matthews, trips to Edisto, and hosting bonfires for their children, family, and friends.

After Renée’s death, a new chapter of Jim’s life began, and he was fortunate to find love and companionship again with Wanda Stack Fields. Together, they enjoyed camping, attending rodeos, and spending time with family. In Prosperity, Jim could often be found on his golf cart with his beloved dog-child, Millie, faithfully along for the ride. As Jim’s health steadily declined, Wanda and her family cared for him with love and devotion, becoming an important part of his life and his story.

Jim’s life cannot be summed up by the years he lived. It is better measured in the stories he told, the photographs and videos he took, the projects he started, the music he loved, the gadgets he showed off, and, most importantly, the people who will continue telling his stories. And knowing Jim, there are plenty of stories left to tell.

Services will be announced at a later date.