James Alan Gilmartin

James “Jim” Alan Gilmartin, 64, of Lamar, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 26, 2025. A lifelong resident of Lamar, Jim was born to Joseph and Betty (Loewe) Gilmartin and raised on the family farm that shaped his life and values. He lived his entire life within a one-mile radius of that cherished land, a testament to his deep roots, steady heart, and unwavering commitment to home and heritage. In 2012, the Gilmartin family farm earned the distinction of being a Missouri Century Farm, a recognition Jim wore with pride.

A 1979 graduate of Liberal High School, Jim began his working years at O’Sullivan Industries, farming on the side but soon returned full-time to farming. Farming wasn’t just a job, it was a lifestyle, and a joy. The outdoors was his sanctuary where he dedicated many hours followed by his faithful dog Ellie Mae, who was the perfect farm dog. His cattle were more than livestock; they were pets. He had “the touch,” with livestock giving him a skill caring for them that few others could match.

On February 2, 1985, Jim married the love of his life, Karen Foster. Over the next 40 years, they built a life rich in love, laughter, and family. Together they raised four children and created a home. He was a strong believer in Christ and a member of the Nevada Church of Christ. Jim worked hard to show support for his family and their endeavors—even if it meant buying 35 boxes of Girl Scout cookies just to help a granddaughter hit her goal (and yes, he ate them too). Jim was a devoted husband, father, and granddad teaching grandkids how to drive the Gator, or simply riling up and then handing giggling grandchildren back to their parents.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Karen Gilmartin of Lamar, MO; his children April (Tim) Brown of Paola, KS; Austin (Alana) Gilmartin of Lamar, MO; Dylan (Abby) Gilmartin of Lamar, MO; and Krista (Zak) Banks of Halfway, MO; and his grandchildren Brynlee Brown, Adalynn Brown, Harper Gilmartin, Matthew Gilmartin, and Hudson Gilmartin. He is also survived by his sister Christine (Lester) Fast and his brother Kent Gilmartin of Liberal, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Betty Gilmartin, his sister, Carolyn Wood, his mother and father in law Betty and Howard Foster, and his sister-in-law Carol Gilmartin.

Jim leaves behind a legacy of love, quiet strength, and a life well-lived in simple, meaningful ways. His hands were calloused from years of hard work, but his heart was soft when it came to the people and animals he loved. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him, but his spirit lives on in every sunrise over the pasture, every laugh of a grandchild, and every quiet moment on the land he called home.

If you would like to make a donation in lieu of flowers the family suggests Fair Haven Children’s Home in care of the funeral home.

The family will honor Jim’s wishes and have a simple graveside service where all are welcome to attend. It will be held at Barton City Cemetery at 10:00 am on Saturday June 7, 2025.