Jim Stitsworth
Feb 27th, 1956 - Mar 30th, 2020- Birth Date: Feb 27, 1956
- Death Date: Mar 30, 2020
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Biography:
Jim Stitsworth, 64, bid the earth farewell on March 30, 2020 at a local hospital in North Little Rock, AR.
The son of the late Henry & Hazel Stitsworth, Jim was born and raised in Fort Smith, AR. He was heavily involved in 4-H alongside his family, and this was where his love of cooking began.
After graduating from Southside High School in ‘74, Jim went on to a long career in the food industry. Jim’s personality kept him from ever meeting a stranger, and his love of a challenge produced many an inventive menu for groups big and small in the greater Fort Smith area.
When Jim decided to set a new path in his 40s, he found himself serving as a children’s minister at Goddard and Wesley United Methodist Churches. He ended his working days by teaching special needs students in the Fort Smith Public School District. Jim also spent time chaperoning Southside Forensic and Episcopal youth events with his daughter. Those times were extremely special, and he loved being ‘Mr. Stits’ to Molly’s group of friends.
Retirement inspired a move to Bradenton, Florida for Jim and Carol, and it is there that they made very dear friends and enjoyed life in the salty air and sunshine. Arkansas called them home 6 years later, and it was truly a blessing which allowed Jim to spend the end of his life close to his daughter and grand-pups, Pearl and Arthur.
Jim is survived by his wife of 38 years, Carol; daughter, Molly Caroline; brother, Michael (Karen) of Minnesota; nieces Allison Coindreau, Rebecca Wunch, and Teresa Fontanille; nephews Scott Stitsworth and Kyle Bramlette; loving aunt, Betty Holland; and beloved cousins Judy Price, Marvin Holland, Jr., Larry Holland, Steve Hampton, and Jerry Hampton.
Jim never met a stranger, and leaves behind a host of friends and wonderful stories filled with laughter, food, and love.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to Camp Mitchell.
Lynn Gardner
We are so sorry to hear about Jim, but happy that he was able to be back in Arkansas so you could be closer to Molly. We enjoyed being your neighbors in Bradenton. I especially enjoyed being a 4th floor “rail bird” with Jim while having some less than serious discussions. Know that you are loved and missed, as well as in our thoughts and prayers. Take care, Randy & Janet Ginn
My thoughts & prayers are you, love ya’ll
Love, Aunt Betty