James D. Neighbors

Visitation will be held at Church of the Nativity located at 3800 W. 119th Street, Leawood, KS 66209 on June 27, 2025, from 9:30 am – 10:45 am followed by a Mass celebrating his life at 11:00 am.

Born in 1930, Jim dedicated his life to more than just constructing homes, he built thriving communities. In 1958, at the age of 28, he founded the James D. Neighbors Construction Company, which would go on to become a cornerstone of the Kansas City area. Jim was known for his integrity, craftsmanship, and lasting impact.

His dedication to the building industry was widely recognized. He was named a Life Director of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in 1994, was nominated as a Kindest Kansas Citian in 2004, and was honored by both the NAHB and the Kansas City Home Builders Association for 50 years of service. He was later inducted into the Kansas City Home Builders Association Hall of Fame.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Eleanor of 63 years; his parents, Mary and Grover Neighbors; his brothers, Pat, Charlie, and Bo Neighbors; his half-sisters, Audra Eldridge and Wilma Trowbridge; and his cherished great-grandson, baby Nico Neighbors.

He is lovingly survived by his five children and their spouses: Barbara and Joe Weatherford, Beverly and Don Gieszelmann, Mike and Melissa Neighbors, Mark and Shelly Neighbors, and David and Lisa Neighbors. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren, each a proud part of his enduring legacy.

He was a man of faith and will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his quiet strength, and the enduring legacy he leaves in both his family and the community he helped shape.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in honor of James D. Neighbors to the Kansas City Hospice House, whose compassionate care brought comfort during his final days. Donations may be sent to: Kansas City Hospice House, 12000 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO 64145; or made online at www.kchospice.org.