Jimmie Joe Lars, Sr., departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, music, and service to others. Born to loving parents, Joseph Lars and Alberta Riley, in Kansas City, Missouri, Jimmie was a joy to everyone who knew him.

Jimmie was a fun-loving, outgoing man who never met a stranger. He had a heart for helping children and found great joy in teaching martial arts, boxing, and encouraging young people to believe in themselves and reach their full potential. He was a gifted swimmer, enjoyed working on and repairing cars, and had a talent for building and creating with his hands.

Music was one of Jimmie's greatest passions. He loved dancing, playing the saxophone, and listening to jazz. Among his favorite artists was the legendary Sam Cooke, whose song "A Change Is Gonna Come" held a special place in his heart. He was also an avid fan of The Delfonics and could often be found enjoying timeless soul classics.

Jimmie worked as a professional driver, where he faithfully served the community. He was a devoted member of Step Out on Faith Worship Center, where he served on the Trustee Board, reflecting his unwavering commitment to his faith and church family.

More than anything, Jimmie treasured his family. He shared a beautiful and devoted marriage with his beloved wife, Jacqueline Lars, who was his closest confidante and best friend. Together they built a life rooted in love, laughter, faith, and unwavering support for one another. While words cannot fully express the depth of her loss, Jacqueline will forever cherish the countless memories they created together and will deeply miss the man who stood faithfully by her side through life's joys and challenges. Their love was a beautiful example of friendship, commitment, and enduring devotion.

Those who knew Jimmie also knew his appreciation for good food. He especially loved chicken, peach cobbler, and sweet potato pie, meals that brought him comfort and reminded him of home and family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved brothers, Billie (his twin brother), Marion, and Danny; and his sisters, Barbara, Pauline Taft, Joanne White, Dorothy Moreland, Faye Brown and Brenda.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory his devoted wife, Jacqueline Lars; his sons, Jimmie J. Lars, Jr., of St. Louis, Missouri, and Maurice Thornton of Kansas City, Missouri; his daughter, Tichelle Anderson of Lee's Summit, Missouri; his sisters, Agnes Williams "Betty" and Nora Spearman "Jan"; his brother, Robert Anderson; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; extended family; his church family; and countless friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, humor, wisdom, and unforgettable spirit.

Though his earthly journey has ended, the memories of Jimmie will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. His legacy of faith, music, service, generosity, and love will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.