James “Jimmy” Durrill quietly slipped away on August 5, 2024, making his transition as he lived his life. He cared for others with an incredible strength, never seeking attention for himself. This son of James Monroe, Sr. and Theodora Bernice (Montgomery) Durrill, made his entrance on July 29, 1944, a very sunny ninety-six-degree day in Sedalia, Missouri. He carried that sun in his eyes and his laugh, endearing himself to everyone around him. He graduated Green Ridge High School in 1962, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. After completing his service, Jimmy moved back to Green Ridge to care for his mother, something he did until her passing in 1994. A hands-on nature and inquiring mind lead to a career as an auto mechanic, an expertise called upon by numerous friends and relatives. The knowledge was freely shared, with no payment or favors expected.
In 1977, Jimmy met Ann “Nancy” Matney. They were married in Oklahoma on November 4 of that same year. He had not only a wife, but two step-sons, Vincent “Vince” and Anthony “Tony” Reek and a step-daughter, Kelly Sue Erickson. In 1978, his daughter Jolene was born. She was the apple of his eye, and he enjoyed sharing the news of her arrival with anyone who would listen.
His passing is met with grief by those left behind. This includes his wife Nancy, his step-son Vince and his daughter Jolene, two brothers, Terrence Durrill and Ronald Durrill, numerous grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. But there is comfort in knowing that he was greeted by his mother, his sister Sandra Durrill Curtis, and other family and friends who he had patiently waited to see again. Until our reunion, we will hear the echoes of his laugh, remember the twinkle in his eye and do our best to follow his example.
Visitation will be held at Royer Funeral Home in Grain Valley from 2-4 on August 9, 2024. Services will be at 4pm followed by burial at Grain Valley Cemetery.
Obituary submitted by the family.
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Grain Valley, MO 816-847-4441