A life poured out for others
Pastor Jim believed in people, loved the church, and carried a passion for helping others encounter Jesus. His life was marked by faithfulness, humility, joy, and a deep commitment to God’s calling.
Honoring his life and ministry
Pastor Jim’s life was marked by a deep and enduring love for God that began in his earliest years. Even as a child, he lingered in church long after others had gone, drawn by a sincere hunger for God’s presence. That devotion only grew stronger, leading him to become one of the youngest Extraordinary Lay Ministers in the Catholic Church, where he faithfully served and even helped administer communion.
His journey of ministry expanded as he began leading Bible studies in churches and homes, sharing the Word with passion and conviction. It was during a high school production of Godspell: The Gospel According to Matthew that Jim experienced a life‑changing encounter with Jesus Christ. From that moment on, his faith became central not only to his life but to his family, his relationships, and even his time on the basketball court.
In 1983, Jim stepped into pastoral leadership, and by 1984, in a season that coincided with bringing home their third son from the hospital, the church purchased its first building—a milestone that reflected both faith and sacrifice. Jim also founded a house siding business called House Healers, a name that prophetically echoed the heart of his ministry: restoring homes, strengthening marriages, and bringing healing to families through the Word of God. His message was simple yet powerful: “More Word, more life.”
Throughout his years of ministry, Pastor Jim carried a profound burden for the city. He worked tirelessly to bring unity among pastors and congregations, organizing dinners, prayer gatherings, and citywide events. He was especially committed to breaking down racial barriers and fostering genuine fellowship across communities. His willingness to step into spaces others avoided led to impactful outreach, and many experienced healing and deliverance under his ministry. At some point along his journey, Jim was filled with the Holy Spirit, further empowering his calling.
Pastor Jim leaves behind a legacy of faith, unity, and restoration—a life poured out for God, his family, and his city. Everybody who knew Pastor Jim knew what to expect. His courage and grit often likened him to John Wayne, but his heart was loving and kind, just like the God he served. He had big dreams for what God could do in Omaha and was privileged to see many of them come to fruition. He was devoted to his wife and family, loved those around him fiercely, and was always looking for ways to be a blessing to both loved ones and strangers.
His heart for the church
Pastor Jim believed the church should be grounded in the Word of God; a place of hope, healing, discipleship, and bold faith.
His lasting impact
The ministry he poured into continues to shape Liberty Church and the people connected to it today.
A celebration of remembrance
This page stands as a tribute to a man who served God well and loved people deeply. His memory is cherished, and his legacy remains woven into the story of Liberty Church.
