Jim Donnelly

Sep 13, 2014 | Obituaries, Obituaries 2014 | 11 comments

Jim Donnelly died at home on September 12, 2014. He will be sorely missed by those who loved him. He leaves his wife, Mary, son Sam, extended family and many dear friends. Jim was always a giver. Frequently he would say he’d be on an elevator with a dozen people, and invariably a person who needed help or directions would turn to him. We’d joke about his invisible, neon sign that said “It’s okay, go ahead and ask me.” His most loved time after retirement was when he volunteered at Gordon Parks where he tutored kindergartners and 1st graders in reading. He also helped in the lunch line. They called him, Mr. Jim.

An informal time of gathering and sharing of stories will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2014 at Signature Funerals and Cremation: 8019 State Line Rd., Kansas City, MO 64114. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim’s name to the GP Elementary Literacy Program; Gordon Park Elementary School, 3715 Wyoming St; Kansas City, MO 64111. Additionally, please leave a story below for the family on this webpage, below.

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Rita Braun

8 years ago

As one of six children, I have many fond memories of my little brother. He was always kind, considerate of others feelings and very selfless. He will be truly missed but will always be in the fondest memories of my life. I love you Jimmy.

Rita Kropkowski

8 years ago

I will always remember “Uncle Jimmy” as a kind and compassionate person. He suffered greatly over the last few years, but now he is free of all pain and at peace. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. May he rest in peace. God Bless Jimmy Donnelly! Loving niece, Sissy

Cary Odell

8 years ago

Mary and Sam my heart goes out to you. Jim was instrumental in guiding me in my career with adults who have developmental and intellectual disabilities. He was so wise and had such a respect for people and their rights. I will never forget him. God rest his soul.

Carmen and Chuck Williams

8 years ago

Our deepest sympathies to Jim’s family and to Mary, our dear friend. Jim was very brave and strong through it all and we will pray for him and for you, Mary, to keep the Lord in your heart to guide you and give you strength.
fondest regards, Carmen and Chuck Williams

Mary Vorsten

8 years ago

Prayers for you Mary and your son Sam. Jim has been released from his earthly body and all of the pain of the past several years. It was his desire to go on to a life without pain and you gave him that gift. Take gentle care of yourself as you grieve his passing.

Dianne (Shehi) O'Connor

8 years ago

Mary, I am so very sorry to hear of the recent passing of your husband, Jim. I am glad that your son, Sam, is able to be with you during this sad time. You are both in my thoughts and prayers. I know that our classmates from Luckey High (Class of ’67), are also sharing in your sorrow.
With deepest sympathy, Dianne (Shehi) O’Connor

Bob Bendotti

8 years ago

Sincere condolences to Jim’s wife, family and friends. Jim and I were classmates at St. Joseph’s Boys HS in NJ from 1962-66. Then, we remained friends for many years until falling out of contact as both of us moved out of state. As I read his obituary, I was reminded of Jim’s kind spirit and compassion, his ability to laugh and cause others to do the same, as well as his innate intelligence. Jim was a true “Blue Jay” guy and a wonderful friend to so many of his classmates. It was a blessing to have Jim as a friend. You lived a good life so now RIP Jimmy!

Paul Barbetta

8 years ago

Reply to Rita Braun

Rita,
So sorry to hear about Jimmy’s passing. We were good friends in High School and, both being from Ridgefield ParK, we also knew each other during the early years. He was friends with my brother Mike at St. Francis. I’d often thought of him and wondered how he was doing out there in KCMO. So sorry for your loss. Please pass this on to the rest of your family.
Paul

Ron Vuturo

8 years ago

He will be missed. I sat on Jim’s front porch with him a couple of days before his death. Chatting in the sun about this and that. He was from Bergen county, Jersey, and I from across the way in Suffolk county, NY, so we tended to see eye to eye. I’m so very glad I took the opportunity to sit with him .before the train left the station.

Rev. Damien R. Dougherty, O.F.M.

8 years ago

Dear Mrs. Donnelly and Sam ~

Jim and I were high school classmates and friends.

Yesterday afternoon I celebrated Holy Mass here in St. Louis for the happy repose of his soul and for your consolation.

Sincerely,

Fr. Damien “Doc” Dougherty, O.F.M.

Debbie Brightbill Umscheid

8 years ago

Mary – Just returned from being out-of-state and saw Mary Jo’s e-mail. So very sorry to learn of Jim’s passing. Am praying for a stillness and peace for you now and in the days ahead; may your many treasured experiences bring you comfort. God’s blessings to you, Sam, and all of Jim’s family. (Note: I can tell that I absolutely would have been one of those folks asking Jim for help on an elevator; what a very kind face). ♥Debbie

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