James "Jim" William Grace passed away unexpectedly on November 15, 2022 at the age of 76.  He was born on May 12, 1946. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Virginia Webb Grace, daughter, Melinda Jane Grace, and brother-in-law, Roland Stanton.  Jim is survived by his wife, Sharon, of the home, and children: Jamie Sackett (Mike Kreppert) of Springfield, IL, Julie (Scott) Carter of Poteau, OK, Lori (Steve) McCampbell, Jeff (Cassondra) Bounds, David Bounds, all of Albany. Grandchildren: Ryanne (Jason) Hedrick, Shelby Long, Riley Long (Jake) of Illinois, Trevor (Maggie) Carter, Clint Carter, Colton Carter of Poteau, OK, Leslie (Chance) Redmond, of Maryville, Khol (Abigail) Bounds, Grant Bounds. Great-grandchildren: Isabella and Adalynn Hedrick, Trenton Klein of Illinois, Gracie Carter of OK, Tegun and Cambrie Redmond of Missouri and his sister, Sandra Stanton of Florida, niece, Lori (Nick) Chalmers and nephew, Troy (Pat) Stanton of Illinois, two nephews, Jay Hayes (Twila) and Craig (Amy) Hayes of Kansas, and several cousins.

Jim was a graduate of Albany High School and served in the Vietnam War from April 11, 1968- March 4 ,1970 with Bravo Company, 3/22 INF 25 ^th Division. Upon return from the war, Jim went to work on the family farm with his father, Kenneth, eventually taking over the farm when Kenny retired.  Jim ran the family farm until 2011 when he and his wife, Sharon, sold the family farmhouse and moved to town.  Jim continued to drive for the school district until he retired after 37 years of service in 2017.

Jim and Sharon celebrated 35 years of marriage on October 23, 2022.  He enjoyed playing cards, which he did at the Bus Barn and later at the Albany Senior Center. He was a 66-year member of the Albany United Methodist Church and an active 53-year member of the VFW chapter.

He will be sadly missed by his wife, children, and their families.

Per his wishes, he will be cremated, and a private family gathering will be held at a later time. Memorial Contributions: Albany United Methodist Church in care of the Roberson-Polley Chapel, 403 N. Hundley, Albany, MO 64402.

Online Condolences: www.robersonpolleychapel.com