James R. Hefley, 90, passed away October 2, 2023 after a short battle with pneumonia.
Jim was born to Floyd and Vivian (Lichtenwalter) Hefley on October 14, 1932. He attended Elm Tree School and Columbus High School. He graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in Agricultural Education. After his ROTC duty in Alaska, he returned to manage the family farm. Jim added a Grade A dairy and won awards for his soil conservation practices.
Jim is survived by his wife of 70 years, Lillian Adele (Anderson), daughters Joy (John) Heffernan and Kim (Mark) Sprick grandchildren Jennifer Heffernan, Julia Heffernan, Tim Sprick and Scott Sprick, and great grandchildren Owen, Mia and Vienna Sprick.
In his youth, Jim was the first president of the Spring Valley Sparklers 4-H Club. He retained an interest in 4-H and Extension his whole life, supporting the programs as a leader and volunteer.
Jim has been a lifelong active member of the First United Methodist Church in Baxter Springs.
Visitation will be Thursday, October 5 from 6-7 p.m. at Derfelt Funeral Home in Baxter Springs. Funeral services will be at the First United Methodist Church in Baxter Springs on Friday, October 6 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Memorial Fund at the First United Methodist Church, Baxter Springs. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes. com.