Jim Haney

Jim was a man of deep faith, a larger-than-life personality with a heart that had room for everyone. He loved the Lord wholeheartedly, and that love was reflected in the way he lived, the way he gave, and most importantly, the way he treated people.

On June 1, 1990, Jim married the love of his life, Sherri, and the two became “two peas in a pod, Precious and Pumpkin”. Together they shared a beautiful, faith-filled marriage built on love, an unwavering devotion to God, friendship, and laughter.

Jim proudly served as a police officer in Detroit and Van Buren Township where his years of service were a reflection of his desire to help others and make a difference in the lives of those around him.

While some people find their greatest joy in hobbies, sports, or collecting things, Jim’s greatest passion was people. He loved people. He had a remarkable gift for turning everyday encounters into lasting impressions.

Jim never met a stranger, and if you crossed his path, chances are you were not going to remain one for long. Whether he was chatting with the cashier or bagger at the grocery store, getting to know the guys at the car wash and oil change shop, or catching up with an old friend, Jim had a way of turning even the simplest interaction into something “special.”

With his big personality, quick humor, and genuine curiosity about others, Jim could strike up a conversation with anyone and he usually did. He loved to laugh, share stories, and bring a little joy wherever he went. But what made those conversations so meaningful was not simply that Jim loved to talk. It was that he genuinely cared. He had a way of making people feel seen, heard, valued, and loved.

Jim did not measure people by their titles, accomplishments, or circumstances. To him, everyone was worthy of kindness, respect, and a moment of his time. He understood that sometimes the smallest gestures, such as a conversation, a laugh, a helping hand, or simply remembering them, could make the biggest difference in someone’s day.

He was generous with what he had, loyal to those he loved, and always willing to help someone in need. Jim had a servant’s heart, and his Christian faith was not merely something he professed but something he practiced every day. He lived his faith through his actions, showing God’s love in the most ordinary and extraordinary ways.

Above all, Jim loved the Lord and treasured his family. He leaves behind not only precious memories, but an example of how to live a life filled with faith, compassion, generosity, and genuine love for others.

Jim is now home with the Lord and reunited with his beloved parents, Clarence E. and Mae Haney; his brothers, John Haney and Tom Haney; and his sisters, Betty Robbins and Dot Morris; brothers-in-law, John Bloye and Bill Robbins.

He is survived by his beloved wife Sherri; his sisters, Jeneatte Gunthner and Judy (Ewell) Hitchcock; his brother, Jerry (Diane) Haney; and his sisters-in-law, Pauline Haney and Natalie Haney.

Jim leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love and friendship. His impact lives on not only in the hearts of his family and closest friends, but also in the countless people whose days were made a little brighter simply because they crossed his path.

Though his presence will be deeply missed, there is peace in knowing that Jim is now in the arms of the Savior he loved and served so faithfully. In one of his last verbal prayers, Jim said, “God, I can’t wait to see you.”

His laughter may be quiet here on earth, but the love he shared will continue to echo through every life he touched.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” - Matthew 25:21

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 16, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm and resuming from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48152.

Friends and family are invited to return to the funeral home on Saturday, October 17, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a funeral service beginning at 12:00 pm. He will be laid to rest at Glen Eden Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in honor of Jim to the American Cancer Society. Jim's hope is that someone else could be spared what he went through.