In a few paragraphs, how do you memorialize the life of a special husband, father,
grandfather, professional colleague & devoted friend who meant so much to so
many?
Jim was born in Hannibal, MO 69 years ago, raised in Palmyra and spent most
of his adult life in Springfield practicing law for over 40 years. Jim and his wife
Suzanne were married for 48 years and had two children, Scott (wife Anita) & Jamie (husband Mike) who
were the pride of Jim’s life. Adding much joy to his life were his four adorable
grandchildren; Aidan, Maegan, Connor & Ryleigh. “Pa-Pa” became one of Jim’s
favorite words.
Following his military service where he met Suzanne, he attended Missouri
University Law School graduating in 1970, and was admitted to the Missouri Bar
that year.
Jim and Suzanne moved to Springfield where Jim joined the law firm of Woolsey,
Fisher, Clark & Whitaker as an associate attorney. In 1973, Jim was appointed
by Gov. Christopher Bond as Chief Administrative Law Judge of the Springfield
office of the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation. He ably and
competently served in that position for 20 years.
Following his retirement from the Division of Workers Compensation , Jim again
entered private law practice and was one of the founding members of the law firm
of Daniel, Powell, Wesley & Brewer, LLC and practiced there until his death. He
had a vast number of devoted clients who will miss his wise counsel and caring
legal representation.
He was a member of the American and State Bar Associations, and the
Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association. He was also a member of the Missouri
Organization of Defense Lawyers and served on the Board of Directors of Kids
Chance (a scholarship program for children of workers killed or seriously injured
in job- related accidents).
Jim was a member of the Missouri Alumni Association and bled black & gold. He
cheered the horses at Oaklawn and in his spare time loved to read.
A memorial visitation to share memories will be held Monday, August 22nd at 4-6
pm at Greenlawn Funeral Home East. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers,
Jim would want you to contribute to Kids Chance Inc. of Missouri, PO Box
410384, St.Louis, MO 63141 or to the charity of your choice.
Jim’s death will leave a void in all our lives, especially that of his family he loved
so much. His family and all of us are now left with the fondest of memories we
will forever cherish.