James Edward “Jim” Marchbanks, 86, of Barnhart, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2025. Born in Saint Louis on February 6, 1939, Jim lived a full and meaningful life dedicated to his family, community, and craft. He was a proud graduate of Hancock High School’s class of ’57. He worked for 62 years as a proud union carpenter, building a reputation for exceptional commitment and craftsmanship.
He was a devoted and loving husband to Darlean Marchbanks for 35 wonderful years since their marriage on June 23, 1990. Joining together, they had four children: Lisa (David) Sharp, Tim (Sherry) Marchbanks, David Marchbanks, and Darrin (Jennifer) McCullough. He was a cherished and adoring grandfather to eight grandchildren and great-grandfather to seventeen great-grandchildren. Above all, Jim treasured time with them from playing on the floor while he was still able, to bowling together, taking them to the St. Louis Balloon races, visiting the zoo, going to Grant’s Farm and taking them on cross-country vacations to create memories.
Jim’s zest for life showed in everything he did. He was passionate about playing the trumpet and organ, he had a deep love for gospel music, and would travel anywhere to listen to gospel singing groups. An outdoorsman at heart, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and RV camping adventures. At home, he had always loved caring for his yard and tending to all their beautiful flower beds.
A six-year National Guard veteran, Jim served his country with honor. His strong faith led him to volunteer at Arnold First Baptist Church Fitness Center, and he was a steadfast supporter of St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and Shriners Hospital, always eager to help children in need.
Jim’s quick humor, generous spirit, and love for a good story made him a joy to be around. He will be remembered for his selfless nature and dedication to those he held dear, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He is survived by his wife, Darlean Marchbanks and brother Virgil and was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Lula Marchbanks, and brothers Albert and Charlie.
Jim’s family takes comfort in knowing he is reunited with loved ones and resting peacefully in heaven in the arms of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of all who loved him.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Kutis Funeral Home, 5255 Lemay Ferry Road, Mehlville, MO.
Family visitation begins at 10 a.m., with friends welcome from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by services at 1 p.m. and interment at Park Lawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Shriners Children’s Hospital.
My deepest sympathies to Darlean and all family members.
My husband and I spent many a wonderful dinner and vacation with Jim and Darlean.
Will cherish always
Love.
Betty Emht
Uncle James,
You were always an inspiration to me. I’m always proud to call you my uncle.
With love,
Lisa,
I am so sorry for your families loss. Losing our parents is very difficult because they are the only person in our whole life that loved us from the beginning of our life. Love Hugs and prayers to you and your family.
Darlene, please accept my condolences to you and the family for your loss.
Jim was a great man. He was always friendly and had a great sense of humor.
I loved hearing stories about Jim and Chuck’s Hancock High days.
Lorna Koenig.
Darlean: I just heard the sad news of Jim’s passing. My condolences to you and your family. All will miss him. He loved Hancock and reminiscing with his friends at our luncheons. Love to you and your family, my sweet girl. You were a true blessing to Jim.
Pat Tate
Darlean
Sympathy and Prayers for comfort for you and his family. Jim will be missed by so many as he was a people loving person. Precious are my memories of time spent with the two of you. Sincerely, Geri
I’m going to miss my brother, James. He was a great brother to me through the years. We had a great and fun childhood. My brother, James and I along with our cousins Paul Marchbanks & Georgie Zoph were called the Lemay Cowboys. I will forever cherish the wonderful memories we made together. My condolences to his wife, Darlean, and children.
Love Virgil
I always loved my visits with Uncle James. He was such a loving and caring Uncle. I will miss seeing and talking with him. He was a genuine soul. I’ll never ever forget you Uncle Jim. I love you. Your loving niece
Linda