1936-2024

James “Jim” R. Donaldson, 88, Savannah, Missouri, passed on Thursday, September 19, 2024, after battling melanoma.

Jim was born March 3, 1936, in St. Joseph, Missouri, to James and Grace (Adams) Donaldson. Jim married Arlene Holland August 17, 1955, and had one son, Jay. Following Arlene’s passing in 1981, Jim remarried to Carolyn Smith June 8, 1991.

Jim served 10 years in the US Army Reserves, 35th Army Signal Corps and 5th Army Missouri National Guard.

Jim enjoyed fishing, hunting, woodworking and farming. He held annual hog roasts and fish fries with family and friends. He loved spending his time with his wife, son and stepchildren, grandkids and great grandkids. Jim was a strong follower of God.

Preceded in death by his first wife, Arlene Catherine Holland; parents, James and Grace Donaldson; brothers, Gerald and Arthur.

Survived by son, Jay; grandchildren, Jason, Melissa, Anthony, Jaylynn, Annelisa; stepchildren, Kristin, Justin; step-grandkids, Samantha, Charlyse, Michael, Rhyson, Raegan, Ezra, Elijah; and 15 great grandchildren.

Visitation at Eastside Baptist Church Friday, September 27, at 10:00 a.m. with funeral service at 11:00 a.m.