(From Clark Funeral Home)James Stanley Laird, 81, of Bella Vista, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025, at Circle of Life Hospice. Born on April 4, 1944, in Stella, Missouri, James was the beloved son of James and Letha (Cooper) Laird.
A lifelong educator, James earned his Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Arkansas, Master’s in Education Administration at University of Kansas, and completed 60 hours toward his Doctorate at Emporia State University.
He dedicated over three decades to teaching, beginning as an English, History and Literature teacher at Trailridge Junior High in Shawnee Mission, Kansas (1968–1977). He continued as school administrator at Oregon Trail Junior High in Olathe, Kansas (1977–1981).
James went on to serve at Indian Trail Junior High (1981–1986) and concluded his career at Pioneer Trail Junior High (1986–1999), before retiring. He also shared his passion for teaching as an Adjunct Professor at Mid-America College from 1997 to 1999. He was awarded Educator of the Year for Olathe and nominated as Outstanding Educator for the state of Kansas.
James was deeply devoted to his community. He was A lifetime member of Kiwanis, he gave his time—volunteering, coaching little league, baseball, and basketball, and sharing his faith as a Sunday school teacher, youth director, and choir member at Grace United Methodist Church. He supported the church’s bus ministry, ensuring young people had access to spiritual connection and support.
James was a published author, an avid woodworker, and loved traveling, fishing, camping, and spending time outdoors.
James went on to serve at Indian Trail Junior High (1981–1986) and concluded his career at Pioneer Trail Junior High (1986–1999), before retiring. He also shared his passion for teaching as an Adjunct Professor at Mid-America College from 1997 to 1999. He was awarded Educator of the Year for Olathe and nominated as Outstanding Educator for the state of Kansas.
James was deeply devoted to his community. He was A lifetime member of Kiwanis, he gave his time—volunteering, coaching little league, baseball, and basketball, and sharing his faith as a Sunday school teacher, youth director, and choir member at Grace United Methodist Church. He supported the church’s bus ministry, ensuring young people had access to spiritual connection and support.
James was a published author, an avid woodworker, and loved traveling, fishing, camping, and spending time outdoors.
He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Barbara Laird; his children Ronald Scott (Susan) Laird of Colorado, Mikelyn Renee (Jeffrey) Liang of North Carolina and grandchildren Taylor (Carter) Burton, Tommy (Hope) Laird, and Ethan Liang; along with extended family. James was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Donna Laird, and his daughter Teri Laird. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories, followed by a graveside service at 11:30 a.m. at Muncie Chapel Cemetery.
Rick Frankey will officiate. James will be laid to rest with military honors.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Circle of Life Hospice in Bentonville, AR, in honor of James’s legacy of service and compassion.
No comments:
Post a Comment