

James was born on November 24, 1941, at home in Guernsey, Wyoming, to Leonard Leroy Lieurance and Geraldine Edith (Baxter) Lieurance.
On June 8, 1963, James married the love of his life, Patricia Jane Hand, in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Together they built a life centered on faith, hard work, and family. They were blessed with four daughters: Tippi, Rae, Laura, and Jamie. James and Patricia also lovingly raised their granddaughter, Amanda, whom they considered their daughter.
James was a hardworking man from a very young age and was truly a jack of all trades. Throughout his life, he worked on a chicken farm, purchased and operated a Taco John’s restaurant, drove semi-trucks, and held many other jobs. No matter the task, he approached it with dedication, determination, and pride.
James proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, enlisting on December 11, 1958. He served honorably for four years and was honorably discharged on December 10, 1962.
Following his military service, James devoted himself to serving his community. He joined the Scottsbluff Police Department on November 4, 1971, where he served as a Police Officer and Senior Investigator for 26 years until his retirement on February 3, 1997. His powers of observation, investigative skills, and ability to determine the appropriate course of action were often the subject of conversation among his fellow officers and were always met with admiration and respect. He earned numerous awards throughout his career and was highly regarded by those who had the privilege of serving alongside him.
Those who knew James will remember him as stubborn, kind, loving, loyal, and funny. His gentle nature, wisdom, and sense of humor touched the lives of all who knew him.
James loved reading his Bible daily and found joy in being outdoors. He enjoyed working in his yard, gardening, remodeling his home, coin and stamp collecting, reading educational materials, and spending time with his beloved dogs. He was a lifelong learner whose curiosity and desire for knowledge never faded.
One of James’s greatest joys was the special bond he shared with his daughter Jamie. He often referred to her as his “angel,” as she was not only his daughter but also his devoted caregiver. He openly told people that his favorite part of the day was when Jamie would come to visit. Their bond was one of deep love, friendship, and unwavering devotion.
James deeply loved each of his daughters and was proud of the women they became. During the final weeks of his life, his daughters Tippi, Laura, and Rae joined Jamie in caring for him, ensuring that he was surrounded by love, comfort, and family. Their presence brought him great peace, and he treasured the time spent with each of them.
James is survived by his daughters, Jamie, Tippi (Ron), Rae (Brian-whom he referred to as the best son-in-law a man could ever have), and Laura; his granddaughter and daughter in his heart, Amanda (TJ); his brothers, Leroy (Tammie) and Ivan; his sisters, Martha (Ed) and Betty; his grandchildren, Alyssa, Chase, James, Patricia, Robert, Shondra, and Breanna; numerous great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia; his parents, Leonard and Geraldine Lieurance; his brothers, David, Johnny, and William; and his sisters, Edith, Emma “Babe,” and Sue Ann “Peewee.”
James’s legacy of faith, service, hard work, and devotion to his family will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23
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