James “Jim” Sommerville

James “Jim” Sommerville

Painted Post, NY

James “Jim” Sommerville, age 95, entered Glory with Jesus on August 28, 2025. Jim grew up in Lawrence, Kansas, where he earned two degrees from the University of Kansas and a degree in Library Science from Emporia State University.

He served in the Army in Korea during the Korean War, taught school in Lawrence, Kansas, and Japan, and served as a librarian in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, before retiring and moving to Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In 2024, he moved to Painted Post, New York.

In 1957, he married Charlotte Thomas, a dear friend from childhood. They began their married life in Japan, where Jim taught school, and their first two children were born. They lived in a Japanese town, attended a Japanese church, and entertained many Japanese friends in their home.

He is survived by three children: John (Kathleen) of Edina, Minnesota, Susan (David) Johnson of Painted Post, New York, and Peter (Judy) of Leawood, Kansas; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two brothers; and a sister.

Jim experienced a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ when he was a freshman at the University of Kansas, and since that time, he has sought to use his life to bless others. He and Charlotte served in several churches, the last of which was Marion Methodist Church. Jim would like to be remembered as a follower of Jesus, who was convinced that what we do on earth makes a difference in eternity.

At this time, there will be no public services held for Jim.

Jim’s family has entrusted his care to Haughey Funeral Home, Inc., Corning, New York. www.haugheyfuneralhome.com