James "Jim" Herndon, 61, of Raytown, Missouri, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2026, after a brief but courageous battle with Stage 4 esophageal cancer, diagnosed just weeks before on May 22, 2026. Gone too soon, he is forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Jim found joy in life's simple pleasures — the twang of a country song, the turn of a Mary Higgins Clark page, the familiar comfort of an '80s television show. He was a man of quiet creativity: painting ceramics, sewing quilts, assembling puzzles, and building model car kits. He never allowed his disabilities to define him or dim his spirit, and he approached each day with a smile, a kind heart, and a positive attitude that touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Oleta Herndon, and his beloved siblings Sandi Davolt, Kirby Herndon, and Berman Herndon. He is survived by his sisters Phyllis "Fid" Branstetter (David) and Terri Burress, and his brother Rick Herndon.
His smile will be remembered. His kindness will be carried forward. And his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Jim will be interred at Newcomer's Floral Hills, Raytown, MO. Services will be private.
Rest in peace, brother.
