James Edward Stringer of Collins, MO, passed away on May 4, 2024, at his home. James was born on February 6, 1964, to Stan and Darlene Stringer in Oxnard, California. James was the 3rd of seven children and lived most of his early life in Bolivar, MO. He found the Lord on June 28, 1976, and joined Goodson Missionary Baptist Church the next night.
James was known for being the most mischievous of the seven Stringer children. From his first day of kindergarten when he slid down the banister of Northward school to when he and Colleen set the grapevines on fire that quickly spread to the hay field. James was planning ways to do things differently. It seemed he was always in the principal’s office for some prank. He also was a dreamer with grandiose concepts. He always had a plan and could visualize his many ideas and dreams although generally they did not turn out as imagined.
After graduating Bolivar High in 1982, James went on to get a degree in auto mechanics from Wichita Automotive and Electronics Institute in 1983. He joined the Army in 1987 where he rose to the rank of E5 and served as a Supply Sergeant and Howitzer mechanic for 17 years. He was stationed in Germany and Saudi Arabia and was a veteran of the Gulf War in 1990-1991. Because of his service, James struggled with PTSD for many years. After leaving the Army, James was a purchasing specialist with the Veterans Administration in Kansas.
James was married to Gail Jolley for 17 years and Kim Hahnfield for 9 years. Roberta became his companion in 2015 after his marriages did not last. He was happiest after moving back to Missouri, being closer to family and where he grew up. James was most proud of being a landowner. He was in love with the property in Collins, MO long before he was able to purchase it in 2019. He soon made it a home and launching ground for new dreams. James enjoyed tinkering, fishing and all things outdoors.
James is predeceased by his father, Stanford Stringer, his brothers Shelton and Joseph Stringer, and nephew, Donnie Wayne Knight.
James is survived by his companion, Roberta Haas, his mother, Darlene Stringer of Bolivar MO, his sisters, Lorena de Rodriguez (Ricardo) of Phoenix, AZ, Colleen Knight (Ken) of Willard, MO, his brothers, Ira John (Pam) of Fair Play, MO, Aaron Stringer (Johnna) of Galena KS and numerous uncles, aunts, nieces and nephews. James considered Kim’s and Roberta’s families as his own. These children Sarah, Lukas, Eric, Carissa, Chandra, Aaron and Ryan will miss their Dad Jim. He was known as Jim-Paw and Pawpaw to the numerous grandchildren and 2 great-grandkids he left behind.
A visitation will take place from 2:00 to 3:00 pm before the service, Friday, May 10, 2024, at Pitts Chapel. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 pm, with Elder Kenny Mallard and Mike McCurry officiating. The burial will then take place at Goodson Cemetery Goodson, MO. Online condolences may be made at: www.greenlawnfuneralhom.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pitts Chapel Bolivar, MO.
WILD LIFE
As the birds swoop and dive
I have to stoop to survive
As they sing so sweet
Live is to bittersweet.
Untamed wildness
Approach it with mildness.
“We all” have a touch of wildness.
A day full of bitterness, and no kindness.
The Lions and Tigers are untamed “Yet”
They are un-blamed for their wildness.
God created life, life into the smallest thing.
God made all animals and the trees
They are the wildest things
Just like the leaves in the trees
Shimmering in the wind.
I will be here glimmering until the end.
Live your life wild and free
Just to see what it brings.
~Written by Jim Stringer, 21 September 2002
