Jimmy Qualls

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

James (Jimmy) Clifford Qualls entered into his heavenly home, welcomed by Jesus and his daughter, on Friday morning, March 24, 2023 after a long illness.

Jimmy was born on September 23, 1933 to Grace Qualls. He was a lifelong resident of Galena, KS. Throughout his early years, Jimmy helped take care of the household and his younger siblings. He then joined the United States Army and spent several years serving our great country. 

After leaving the service, he returned home and married the love of his life, Carol Rae (Elder), on April 2, 1956. After their union, they welcome their daughter, Kimmi, in 1957 and their son, Kirk, in 1958. Jimmy worked many years for Eagle Picher, occasionally working with NASA, and eventually retired from Dumas Manufacturing where he was the overseer of several plant sites. Although he spent many years working, his biggest, most important job was caring for his disabled daughter, Kimmi. Once the grandkids arrived, Jimmy had a new focus on life.

Aside from his family, Jimmy loved spending time at the lake. He and Carol Rae spent many years camping and made numerous friends over the years by doing so. He was also a handyman and enjoyed building and doing things with his hands. Most importantly, Jimmy knew The Lord, loved The Lord and knew where he was going once he left his earthly body. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Galena, KS and up until his sickness wouldn’t allow him to any longer, was there when the doors were open.

Jimmy is survived by his wife of almost 67 years, Carol Rae Qualls, his son, Kirk (Becky) Qualls of Galena, KS, three granddaughters, Leslie (Doug) Heady of Oronogo, MO, Ashley (Dave) Groves of Galena, KS, Abby Qualls of Galena, KS and one great-grandson, Knox Groves. One brother, Neil Qualls, sister-in-law, Jerry (Jack) Delmont, several close nieces and nephews including Jackie and Judy Delmont, Julie and Ted Tackett, Jeff and Christy Delmont, Jered and Mandy Delmont, Jeremy and Jessica Delmont (Jackson and Charlee), Nathan and Krista Delmont (Brody and Ava), Matthew and Amanda Tackett (Lexi, Miley and Tucker), Kyle and Jessica Tackett (Kamden), Mikaila Delmont, Piper Delmont, Cooper Delmont, Stephanie Berry, Tina Gardner, Jeff Qualls and Jimmy Adams and a host of other family members and friends that he cherished very much.

Jimmy was proceeded in death by his mother, Grace, daughter, Kimmi, great-grandson, Christian, sister, Wilma, brothers, Billy, Morris, Gary and David and mother and father-in-law, Lois and Barry Elder.

Jimmy has been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Homes for cremation and services. The family would like to extend their gratitude to Compassus Hospice Care, Galena Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Derfelt Funeral Homes for their care and compassion.