JAMES LEO “JIM” HEASLEY, JR.

Date of Birth: April 16, 1937

Date of Death: February 21, 2026

Jim Heasley, 88, of McKinney, Texas, passed away peacefully after battling chronic illnesses and bile duct cancer. Born in Tucumcari, New Mexico, Jim graduated from Tucumcari High School, attended the University of New Mexico, and enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in mortuary affairs. He was especially proud of his role in recovering the remains of the WWII crew of the Lady Be Good in the Libyan desert. He later earned a degree from the San Francisco College of Mortuary Science and dedicated more than 40 years to funeral service across the Southwest. Known for versatility he also worked in sales for several companies throughout his career. On July 18, 1981, he married Judy Berger, beginning a 45-year adventure filled with love, travel, and deep community ties in several states.

Faith and service shaped Jim’s life. A devoted member of the Episcopal Church, he gave generously of his time to outreach ministries as well as community organizations, including Kiwanis, Lions Club, Masons, and the American Legion. He led and supported soup kitchens, served on civic committees in many communities, and was honored alongside Judy as 1995 Volunteer of the Year in Ogden, Utah. An accomplished musician with a rich bass voice, Jim sang in church choirs and community chorales for decades, sharing his love of music. Whether cooking for fundraisers, building his Christmas village display, golfing, traveling, or cheering on Texas Tech, Jim found joy in bringing people together.

Jim is survived by his wife, Judy; his children Jim III (Rhonda), Frisco TX; and Melissa Sharp (Dan), Medford NJ; six grandchildren: Emma, Mavis, Amber, Jackie, Ashton and Catherine; sister, Janet; extended family members; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by daughters Jennifer and Laura, grandson Colter, four sisters, and his parents. Known as a truly “nice guy,” Jim will be remembered for his quiet faith, listening heart, patriotic spirit, and playful dad jokes. A memorial service will be held at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in McKinney, 400 N. College St., Friday March 20th at 1:00 PM with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Peter’s music or outreach ministries or to the McKinney Little Free Pantry.