James "Jim" R. Donaldson, 88, of Savannah, Missouri, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, September 19, 2024 after a brief and valiant battle with melanoma.

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

Jim was a 1954 graduate of Benton High School and served in the United States Army Reserves for 10 years: 35th Army Signal Corps Arms Department 6 years and 5th Army Missouri National Guard for 4 years as a result of the freeze issued by President Eisenhower during the Korean War.

Jim had a passion for fishing, hunting, and woodworking and was an avid farmer who did not believe in the word "quit". He held annual hog roasts and fish fries with his family and friends. He was a man who had an immense love for his family, spending his time with his wife, son and step-children, grandkids, and great grandkids. Jim was a strong follower of God; He was a member of Eastside Baptist Church, where he was baptized, transitioning from Catholic to Christian.

Jim is preceded in death by his first wife, Arlene Catherine Holland; parents, James and Grace (Adams) Donaldson; and brothers, Gerald and Arthur.

Survivors include wife Carolyn, son Jay (Debra) Donaldson; grandchildren, Jason (Sara) Donaldson, Melissa Lancaster, Anthony (Tierney) Donaldson, Jaylynn (Nathan) Snow, Annelisa (Blaine) Klaasmeyer; step-children Kristin Bradley, Justin Eaton; step-grandkids Samantha, Charlyse, Michael, Rhyson, Raegan, Ezra, Elijah; and 15 great grandchildren.

Jim had a life well-lived, truly loving and cherishing his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by many.

Visitation held at Eastside Baptist Church Friday, September 27 at 10:00AM with the funeral service following at 11:00AM.