James Robert Feldmeier

James "Jim" Feldmeier, beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on September 7, 2026, in the comforting presence of his devoted wife, Lana. Born on December 24, 1946, in Redbud, Illinois, Jim was the cherished son of the late Robert Louis and Clara (Goeddel) Feldmeier. Jim's life was a testament to the power of education and community. He graduated from Southeast Missouri State College in 1970, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Education, and later achieved a Master's Degree in the same field. Jim loved being an Eagle Scout and spent four summers in Colorado working at a Boy Scout Camp his junior year of high school through his sophomore year of college. His career as an educator began in 1970, when he embarked on a journey that would span over five decades at Missouri Schools. Jim's passion for teaching Drama, Speech, and English in the Portageville School System touched the lives of countless students. Even after his official retirement, he continued to share his knowledge as a substitute teacher in Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to education. In addition to his teaching career, Jim was a vibrant member of his community. He actively participated in The Lion's Club in Green Valley, Arizona and The American Legion in New Madrid, Missouri where he formed lasting friendships. He was a lively presence at the Green Valley Country Club. Jim's love for sports was evident; he was not only a devoted golfer, adapting to physical challenges with assistance from fellow golfers and the United States Golf Association, but also an enthusiastic supporter of Portageville sports. His booming voice was a familiar sound as he announced football games, kept score at basketball events, and lent his talents to the annual Soybean Festival. Jim had an impressive collection of over 250 college ballcaps, a testament to his love for the game and collegiate spirit. He was known for his unique, resonant voice and his love of socializing with friends over a cold drink. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, cherishing naps with his beloved cat and dog, Bubba and Baby. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Clara Feldmeier; two sisters-in-law Barbara Lane, Mary (Cookie) Hoggard; one brother-in-law Russell Hoggard; two nephews John Allen Lane and Andrew Lane; one niece Rena (Hoggard) Freeman; He leaves behind his devoted wife, Lana, with whom he shared eight wonderful years of marriage. He is also survived by his sister, Jane (Tom) Harte; three nephews, Thomas (Leah) Harte II, Herbie Paul Lane II, Jonathon Lane; two nieces, Jill (Brett) Gaither, Lane Maire Lane; two great-nephews, Thomas Harte III and Jeremy Freeman; and three great-nieces, Chloe Gaither, his attentive young student and friend, Grace Freeman, a special, loving niece, and Savannah Lane, a very caring pal; one great-great nephew Karson Freeman; long-time friends Jim Lindley, Alan Haman, and Paul Kirkland; new friends Thomas and Nicholas Szczerba; and his gentle and devoted caregiver, Shelbie Matthews. Though he did not have grandchildren, Jim's legacy lives on through the many lives he touched. In honor of Jim's memory, those wishing to make a gesture of remembrance are encouraged to consider a donation to his favorite charity, Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital or a charity of their choice. The family will hold a private ceremony to celebrate Jim's life. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit and contributions will be remembered by all who knew him.