James “Jim” F. Staley

James "Jim" F. Staley, born Aug. 21,1926, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Nov. 29, 2015. He was born on the family farm in the Hesper area west of Billings to parents Jacob and Molly (Henry) Staley. He attended elementary school at Elder Grove and Billings Senior High School. He started his farming and ranching career on an 80-acre farm west of Billings in 1950. He married Geraldine Giest on May 13, 1951, and they remained married for 64 years until his passing.

In 1975, Jim and Gerry expanded to a dryland farm and ranch in the Duck Creek area. Jim had a passion for farming and cattle, and loved that way of life. Jim always commented how he loved the smell of the freshly turned soil, in addition to planting and harvesting his crops. Jim retired at the age of 65, and returned to the home farm in Billings, where he lived with his wife until his death. Jim shared many happy times in the winter playing cards with his West End buddies and enjoyed golf in the summer. Jim always had a funny joke to tell, or a mischievous grin on his face.

Jim is survived by his wife and three children: sons John A. Staley (wife Linda), Ron Staley (wife Cindy) and daughter Doreen Sackman (husband Walt.) Jim is preceded in death by brothers Bill and Fredrick, sisters Clara Alles and Elsie Neibauer, and is survived by his brother Alvin.

Jim and Gerry were blessed with seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.

Jim was blessed with many friends and a loving family. He lived a full and happy life.

He will be greatly missed.

Memorial services will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, at Pilgrim Congregational Church, 409 S. 36th St.

Memorials may be made to the Pilgrim Congregational Church in Billings or the charity of your choice.