James “Bro. Jim” Boyd, Sr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and pastor, passed away on the 15th of August, 2024, at the age of 78 in Paducah, KY. Born in Princeton, KY, on November 11, 1945, Bro. Jim lived a life marked by faith, family, and unwavering generosity.
Bro. Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Sharon Kaye Smith Boyd, with whom he built a loving and spiritual home. Their blessed union brought forth joy and love in the form of their children, Joy (Matthew) Napier of Florida; Tiffany (Kevin) Rhinehart of Paducah, Kentucky; William Sean Boyd and James Hayden Boyd, Jr., both of Colorado; and Tony and Trevor Munsell, both of Paducah, Kentucky. The light of Bro. Jim’s life often shone most brightly when surrounded by his adoring grandchildren, Rachall, Stephanie, Travis, A.J., Wendy, Madison, Haylee, and Hanna, whose activities he passionately supported.
Bro. Jim was a guiding influence not only to his family but also to his siblings, Shirley Gray, Sharon Boyd of Princeton, Kentucky, Debbie Rogers of Paducah, Kentucky, Kathy Cummins of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and his brothers, Billy Boyd and Carrell Boyd of Princeton, Kentucky. His numerous nieces and nephews will remember him as a pillar of strength and love within the family.
In his professional life, Bro. Jim proudly served his community as a representative of Monumental Life Insurance Company until his retirement. However, his true calling was realized in his dedication to his faith and his congregation. As the pastor of the Free Gospel Church, Bro. Jim was a beacon of hope and kindness, taking particular joy in managing the church’s food pantry, ensuring that those in need were met with support and sustenance. His commitment to spreading the word of God was also evident as he led the Wednesday night Bible Study and taught Sunday School classes at Heartland Church, touching countless lives with his compassion and wisdom.
Before committing his life to service, Bro. Jim displayed extraordinary talent on the baseball diamond, which led to his drafting by the St. Louis Cardinals. Although an injury incurred by a 90mph fastball during spring training redirected his path, the experience remained a treasured chapter of his dynamic life.
Those who knew Bro. Jim will remember him as the epitome of a generous, faith-filled, and loving individual. His presence brought a sense of peace and purpose, reflecting his deeply held beliefs and his intrinsic kindness toward others.
It is impossible to encapsulate a life so well-lived in mere words, but the legacy Bro. Jim leaves behind is a testament to the profound impact he had on all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. His unwavering commitment to his family, congregation, and community will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Bro. Jim was a 23 year cancer survivor. He was diagnosed with stage 4 Throat and Tongue cancer and his prognosis wasn’t very positive but God healed him and he was able to continue to preach, sing and spread the word of Jesus to everyone’s amazement.
As we bid farewell to a man whose spirit was as formidable as it was gentle, we take comfort in the knowledge that Bro. Jim Boyd, Sr. lived his life as a testament to the values he held most dear. His memory and teachings will endure, guiding us much like the steadfast love he so freely gave.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Bro. Carrell Boyd officiating. Entombment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens.
Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to, Free Gospel Church, 2235 Dixie Ave., Paducah, KY 42003.
Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.