James "Jim" Robert Flowers Sr.

Jim was born January 21, 1944, in Effingham, Illinois, to John William Flowers and Violet Etta (Bell) Flowers. He grew up in Effingham, where, as a young man he spent many evenings "dragging main street" with friends — a chapter of his youth that would later inspire one of his greatest passions.

Jim served his country with honor in the United States Army from July 1961 to November 1967, achieving the rank of sergeant. He served as a tank driver in Korea and as a military police officer in Germany. During his service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, a Marksman qualification, and a letter of commendation from the U.S. Army.

Following his military service, Jim worked for 16 years at World Color Press in Effingham before moving with his family to Arizona, where he would spend the rest of his life. He earned his associate's degree from Scottsdale Community College and went on to a distinguished 24-year career as Director of Information Technology at Fort McDowell Casino. He and his family made their home in Fountain Hills from 1987 to 2008, in Queen Creek from 2009 to 2023, and most recently in Gilbert.

On March 1, 1969, Jim married the love of his life, Virginia Karen Rexroad. Together they built a marriage of 57 years grounded in devotion, laughter, and an unwavering love for their family.

A man of warm humor and generous spirit, Jim had a remarkable gift for accepting everyone he met. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a doting grandfather who treasured every moment with his children and grandchildren. His sense of humor brought light to every room, and his giving heart touched all who knew him.

Jim's lifelong love of classic American cars found its fullest expression in his collection of 1:18 scale die-cast models, particularly classics from the 1950s and 1960s. He was a true craftsman with his collection — building detailed dioramas and custom decals that brought each car to life and carried him back to the cruising days of his Illinois youth. He delighted in attending classic car shows and connecting with fellow enthusiasts. A devoted Phoenix Suns fan for decades, Jim had himself played basketball in his high school years. He was endlessly curious about the world, often immersing himself in travel documentaries and programs about cosmology and the universe. He also found great enjoyment in the Harry Potter film series.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Virginia Karen Flowers of Gilbert; his sons, James "Jimmy" Robert Flowers Jr. and John William Flowers II (and his wife, Jacqui) of Queen Creek; his three grandchildren, Bradley James Flowers, Jake Thomas Flowers, and Dana Elizabeth Flowers, all of Queen Creek; and his sisters, Lisa Flowers (Hewkin) of Iola, Illinois, Linda Flowers (Smith) of Kinmundy, Illinois, and Marilyn Flowers (Fender) of Edgewood, Illinois.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Violet Flowers; his brother, Jerry Bell; and his sisters, Judy Flowers (Tracy), Violet "Ellen" Flowers (Morrison), and Brenda Flowers (Chandler).

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