He had a genuine hospitality that seemed as natural as breathing. He and his wife Lynn welcomed us into their home and graced ours with their warmth and laughter many times; I treasure that gift.

Jim could tell a story. I remember him talking of a friend – someone most of the people gathered also knew, even though many of them did not know each other. By the end of the telling, Jim had coaxed tales of this friend out of others – a living connection that hadn’t been known before. The end of the story was in a bar halfway around the world, patrons all singing a John Denver song.

There are many ways to live a good life, to offer love and service to this blessed, broken world. Jim’s had a way of gladdening the heart. And I am profoundly grateful.