of Belton, MO

September 29, 1951 - February 23, 2025

James Oliver Mize, age 73, of Belton, Missouri passed from this earthly life on Sunday, February 23rd, 2025 at Saint Luke's Health System in Kansas City, Missouri. He was born in Marshall, Arkansas on September 29th, 1951 to Justice Lafayette Mize and Edna Frances Cotton Mize. James was married to Karen Sue Huckabee for 51 years.

Jim attended Marshall High School. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving his country from 1975 to 1978. A man of many talents and careers, he spent 36 years in the drywall trade, worked as a service custodian at Leawood School-where he was cherished by students and colleagues-and drove buses for the Blue Valley and Cass Midway school districts. Jim loved the game of golf and served as a marshal at Eagles Landing Golf Club. However, his greatest calling began in 1984 when he answered the call to preach and entered the ministry. Determined to deepen his understanding of the Bible, he and his young wife, Karen, packed their belongings-and their beloved dog, Spring-into a green school bus and set off for Southeastern Free Will Baptist College in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Their journey was filled with adventure, as the summer heat caused frequent flat tires. When they ran out of spares, they adapted by traveling at night and resting in city parks during the day, with Karen tying Spring to her ankle so he could exercise while they slept. The young couple reached their destination and Jim graduated with a double major in Bible and Pastoral Training, leaving a lasting impression on the college community. More than two decades later, when he and Karen returned for a reunion, students still remembered him as "the man who showed up in a green bus". For 25 years, Jim faithfully served as the pastor of Belton Freewill Baptist Church in Belton, MO, working tirelessly alongside Karen to lead and support their congregation. His greatest gift was his boundless love, which naturally drew people to him. Beloved by many, Jim's life was a testament to faith, kindness and service-both within and beyond the church. His big heart and unwavering love for others will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who were fortunate enough to know him. Jim had a remarkable presence throughout his life, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. His impact was so profound that his former master sergeant from the Army reached out to him years after their service together to check-in. When Jim fell ill, the outpouring of care and concern was overwhelming. His drywall friends checked on him regularly, while young children from the schools sent heartfelt cards and letters wishing him a speedy recovery. His golfing buddies and Saturday breakfast friends visited often, ensuring that he and Karen had everything they needed. Even in the hospital, Jim's warmth and kindness touched the hearts of the nurses, who went above and beyond to keep him comfortable. Jim was truly one of the most gracious and cherished people anyone could know.

Survivors include his wife, Karen Sue Huckabee Mize of the home; brother, Ronald Mize of Marshall; sister, Maudie Douthit of Mablevale; sister-in-law, Barbara Padilla and Junior of Marshall and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and his church family, who will also mourn his passing.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Justice and Edna Mize; brothers, Donald Gene Mize and Claude Mize; brother-in-law, Wayne Douthit and sisters-in-law, Loretta Mize and Nella Horton.

Funeral services for James will be 2:00 PM Friday, February 28th, 2025 at Roller-Coffman Chapel in Marshall, Arkansas with Kenny McDaniel and Kevin Douthit officiating. Visitation will be 1:00 till 2:00 PM preceding the service. Burial will be in Marshall Memorial Gardens where James will be laid to rest with Military Honors. Pallbearers will be Tac Crumley, Heath Mize, Kenny Douthit, Kevin Douthit, Michael Douthit and Steve Padilla. A memorial service honoring Jim's life will be held at Belton Freewill Baptist Church in Belton, Missouri on Sunday, March 9th, 2025 at 2:00 PM.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Coffman Funeral Home
923 Highway 65 North
Marshall, AR  72650
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com