James Edward King, 96, Wellington resident, passed away on Thursday, May 25, 2023, at Homestead Assisted Living of Wellington where he had received exceptional care since 2018.
James was born on August 26, 1926, in Whitesville, KY. James married Mary Lee Gaskill on February 26, 1944, at the First Christian Church Parsonage in Wellington, KS.
James had resided in Wellington since he was a young boy and was active in First Christian Church as well as Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star for many years. He served in the U.S. Navy before returning home to build his family with wife Mary Lee. James owned the Champlin service station for several years and worked for the City of Wellington among several other jobs including running the dozer for his dad's construction company (King Construction) before retiring from Welco in 1990. He enjoyed traveling and camping in his younger years.
James was preceded in death by his loving wife of nearly 78 years; parents George and Louise King; two daughters, Gloria Roberts and infant Linda King; and two granddaughters, Debby Wood and Abby Gail King.
Survivors include son Steve (Sheila) King of Wellington, KS; daughter Janet (Gary) Wirths of Shell Knob, MO; son-in-law Maurice Roberts of Wellington, KS; sister Mary Lou (John) Murray of Wellington, KS; grandchildren Becky (Mike) Brecheisen of Viola, KS and Andy (Heather) King of Washington, OK; great granddaughters Alyssa (Colton) Arbuckle and Kenzie (Brandon) Andrews; and extended family of nieces and nephews.
Graveside services for James will be held at Prairie Lawn Cemetery on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at 10:30 am.  Pastor Colton Arbuckle will officiate.
A memorial has been established with the First Christian Church in lieu of flowers. Contributions can be left with the funeral home.
Frank Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.