Dr. James Robert Link, 58, a longtime Neosho resident and ordained minister of the Assemblies of God church organization, passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2020.
James was born July 13, 1961, to Ancil and Melba (Boyer) Link in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, who preceded him in death.
James is survived by his wife, Evelyn (Brayton) Link, of the home and two children: Kayla (Link) Hernandez and husband, Jorge Hernandez of Neosho, Missouri, and son Brayton Link, of the home. James is also survived by two of the most beautiful and bright grandchildren ever created by the Lord: Kaden and “Little” Evelyn Hernandez are already missing their “Papa”.
James is also survived by two brothers: Gary Link, Owensville, Missouri, and Joe Link with wife, Sue, of Waterloo, Illinois, as well as a host of friends and relatives.
James was currently serving as pastor of Victory Assembly of God Church (Neosho, Missouri – 2000-2020). He had served previously as pastor of Qulin Trinity Pentecostal Church. As well, he served as instructor and Academic Dean at Ozark Bible Institute and College (Neosho) from 1991-2011. Dr. Link loved his students and cherished the many positive memories of being part of their education and training for ministry and life.
James was a man of many interests. First, he loved God and his family with all his heart. He never knew a stranger and treated all people the same, with love and respect. In order to serve his church and community better, he completed a Master of Arts in Counseling from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (Springfield, Missouri) and a Doctorate of Philosophy from Trinity Seminary (Newburgh, Indiana).
James never outgrew his love for riding horses and wearing his cowboy hats and boots. He is a former member of the Missouri Governor’s Mounted Guard and continues to have quarter horses until this day.
He had a heart for missions and traveled to Nigeria, Africa, and former Eastern Communist Germany several times-preaching in crusades, teaching Bible classes, and encouraging Bible School students to listen and obey God’s call on their life.
He served as chaplain for the Newton County Sheriff’s department and the Neosho Police Department (2003-2012)-many times riding with an officer and showing care and compassion to those who needed help in the course of the ride and calls. In the past several months, he served as chaplain to Freeman Neosho Hospital and Freeman West Hospital (Joplin, Missouri) and absolutely enjoyed every moment of it, feeling he might be making a difference with prayer and an encouraging word.
Just to mention a few of James’ experiences:
He ran for Missouri State Representative in 2002 hoping that his run for election would influence Christian leaders and, especially young people, to become leaders in their local, state, and national governments.
He served as a FEMA counselor after the Joplin tornado in 2011 helping to rebuild lives that were shattered.
He was also a hobby farmer planting huge gardens and giving most of it away.
He coached soccer for city soccer teams enjoying the game and the players. He was an avid fan of the Cardinals and Royals baseball teams-very loyal to the state of Missouri’s teams.
Other than serving God, his greatest joy was being with family. He was a wonderful father, grandfather, and husband and was so proud of his children and grandchildren.
Dr. James R. Link will be greatly missed by his family and the church family by whom he was truly loved.
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