Bethany, MO: James W. “Jim” Pilcher, 80, passed peacefully away at his home, surrounded by his family, on February 22, 2025.
He was born March 29, 1944, at Kansas City, Mo., the son of Glen and Hattie Mae (Read) Pilcher. He was a 1962 graduate of Bethany High School, Bethany, Mo. He proudly served his country with the United States Navy from 1962-1966. He then attended Central Missouri State University. On October 12, 1968, he was united in marriage to Gail Rock. Their loving marriage of 56 years was blessed with three children and six grandchildren.
He worked along side his father at Pilcher Construction for several years in Bentonville, Ark., before moving his family to Hope, where he owned and operated Rock – Pilcher Lumber Yard for 10 years. Upon its closure, he took a civil service position at Ft. Riley, as an exterior plumber, he served 26 years in this career, until his retirement. He was a member of the American Legion Post 365 of Hope & the American Legion Riders Post 12 of Herington. He enjoyed spending time with his family, riding motorcycles with friends, and traveling with his wife.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Roger Pilcher. He is lovingly survived by his wife Gail Pilcher of Hope; his children, Jamie and Mark Hilt of Peoria, Ariz.; Sean and Heather Pilcher of Salina; and Brandee and Jason Gentz of Herington; his grandchildren, Aidan Pilcher, Maycee Hilt, Landen Pilcher, Kallee Hilt, Maddox Gentz and Micah Gentz; and a host of extended family and friends.
The Funeral service was March 4, 2025 at St. John Lutheran Church, rural Hope. Interment in the St. John Lutheran Cemetery. Memorial Funds have been established for Dickinson County Home Health and Hospice or the American Diabetes Association in care of Jost Funeral Home, 401 S Washington, Hillsboro, Kan., 67063. Online condolences may be left at www.jostfuneralhome.