James Jefferson McCormick

James Jefferson McCormick, age 83, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at his home in Benton, Arkansas, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Sioux City, Iowa, Jim lived a life marked by service, devotion, and deep thoughtfulness.

After attending Eastern New Mexico University, Jim began his career with the FBI in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In 1963, he joined the United States Army, serving in Intelligence until his honorable discharge in 1966. He continued his professional journey as a civilian computer programmer and analyst until his retirement in 2007.

On April 3, 1965, Jim married the love of his life, Karen Lau. Together, they created a home filled with laughter, faith, and warmth, raising four children. Jim was a man of many passions—he found joy in deer hunting, fishing, music, and books. Known for his quick wit and infectious laugh, he was a jokester at heart, yet also a deep and serious thinker who cherished his family, his faith in Jesus, and the beauty of the outdoors.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Karen; his children Sonya Whetstone (Hoyt), Tammy White (Paul), Rhonda Osborn (Joel) and Travis McCormick (Teresa); eight grandchildren: Chassidi Frederickson (Dallin), Corbin White, Camber Welty (Jordan), Judith Foster (Mekko), Drake Osborn, Reagan McCormick, James McCormick, (Ally) and Luke McCormick; and four great-grandchildren: Madallin, Zoey, Gunner, and Wyatt Frederickson, and Miah Welty. He is also survived by his sister Beverly Hevner, brother Chris McCormick, sister Susan, and youngest brother David McCormick.

A visitation for local friends will be held at the home of Jim and Karen McCormick, 1744 White Oak Ln, Benton, Arkansas, on Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The family will gather for a private memorial to celebrate the life of Jim—beloved husband, Dad, and Papa—on the morning of December 31, 2025, in Eminence, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to two ministries close to Jim’s heart:

Blue Sky Ranch – A mentoring ministry founded by Jim’s daughter and son-in-law, dedicated to guiding fatherless boys into biblical manhood through authentic relationships, skill-building, and healing experiences for the past 10 years. Learn more or donate at www.blueskyranchkansas.com.

Dixie Jackson Arkansas Mission Offering – Supporting mission efforts across Arkansas, including church planting, disaster relief, and community outreach. Donations can be made at app.easytithe.com.

Jim’s legacy of faith, family, and service continues through these life-changing ministries. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Arrangements by Arkansas Cremation, 10515 W Markham St, Suite B1, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205. If you would like to leave a message of condolence to the family, you may do so using the Guestbook section.

www.arkansascremation.com