James “Jim” Valentine

James “Jim” Valentine, 55, passed away at the Village of Mission in Prairie Village, Kansas on July 5th, 2026. For three years, Jim battled cancer with immense courage and unwavering hope. Throughout his illness, Jim searched for answers, hoping that a greater understanding of his rare cancer could someday help others. He was a devoted father, a loving son and brother, and a true friend who brought warmth to everyone around him.

Born on January 15th, 1971, in Merriam, Kansas, Jim grew up surrounded by a large family as the youngest of eight siblings. His family’s faith in God was an important part of Jim’s upbringing. Throughout his life, he continued to explore different ways of understanding and expressing his own faith. He graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Army, receiving an honorable discharge for his dedicated service. Above all else, Jim was a deeply committed and loving father to his daughter, Hannah, who was the light of his life.

Jim loved spending quiet afternoons visiting local parks, fishing, watching birds, feeding geese, and exploring new walking trails. Creative and young at heart, he enjoyed coloring, crafting, and capturing photos of the world around him. Jim loved to cook, often experimenting with his own unique combinations. In recent years, he and his daughter Hannah shared a new enjoyment of trying new cuisines and finding healthy, satisfying dishes together, which became some of their fondest memories.

He is survived by his beloved daughter, Hannah Valentine, and six of his cherished siblings, Maurice “Val” Valentine III, Bradley Valentine, Marsha Masters, Jan Crainshaw, Ellen Cantrell, and Cheryl Simpkins, along with many extended family members and friends who cared for him deeply. He was preceded in death by his parents, Maurice Valentine II and Marilyn “Jean” Valentine, and one sibling, Sherman Valentine.

A graveside memorial to honor Jim’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at Shawnee Mission Memory Gardens. The gathering will include words of remembrance and a prayer. A tent will be provided; guests are welcome to bring a chair. Following the service, family and friends are invited to a celebration of life at Shawnee Mission Park, Shelter 11.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Jim may make a memorial donation to The University of Kansas Cancer Center (Research and Education) or NAMI Greater Kansas City.