James Crimmins

James Crimmins, 69, of Clay Center, KS, passed away on Thursday, January 1st, 2026. James was born on June 22, 1956, in Washington, KS. James is survived by his wife, Kim (Hammel) Crimmins, and his four children, Jericho (Chad) Hammond, Jordy (Kathleen) Crimmins, Dani (Justin) Lehman, and Sydney (Garrett) Crane. ‘Grandpa James’ was the title he cherished most, as he was blessed with twelve beloved grandchildren. A lifelong sports fan, he especially loved watching them play, cheering them on with pride and joy.

James and his siblings, Mike, Jerome, Steven, and Susan, were raised north of Green, KS, near Kimeo, before moving outside of Clay Center. James was proceeded in death by his parents Thomas and Melvina Crimmins and his brother Michael Crimmins.

He was a passionate farmer by trade, a devoted and proud father by calling, and a larger-than-life presence to everyone who knew him. Farming was not just his occupation- it was his way of life. James’ favorite season was spring; he loved the smell of the dirt. He rose with the sun and never shied away from hard work and determination, instilling those values in his children.

Though the farm always called, the mountains gave him rest. He traded fields for peaks and found freedom on four wheels; he knew every trail by name and splashed through every stream. He embraced life fully on those Colorado mountain tops, he knew no stranger, and everyone was invited. He loved telling stories of riding through the mountain trails with his family and friends – each one bigger, funnier, and more vivid than the rest. He took everyone along for the ride, reliving the adventure with a giant grin.

Though his hands are now at rest, the seeds he planted through hard work, love, and humor will continue to grow in the lives of all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the land he worked, the family he raised, and the countless lives he touched.

Visitation will be held from 3-6 PM on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home.

The funeral service will take place at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the United Methodist Church in Clay Center.

Following the graveside service, please join the family for lunch at the Family Life Center.

If you wish to donate to his memorials, please make checks to the Clay County Medical Center Comprehensive Wound Care Center or Clay Center Youth Basketball Association.

Online condolences may be made at www.nsrfh.com