James Wilbur Young was born on August 28, 1935, to Claude and Gladys (Hastings) Young in Covington, Virginia, and departed this life surrounded by family and friends on June 4, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri, just shy of 91. Jim was the oldest of six children, Paul (Nancy) Young, Fran (Dan) Hutchins, Linda Simmons, David (Sally) Young, and the late Johnny Young.
His greatest joy was the life he built with his wife, Sue (Martin) Young, whom he married on August 1, 1987. He is survived by three sons, Dennis Young, Douglas Young, and Greg (Tina) Medley; three grandchildren, Christina Lloyd, Ally Medley, and Caden Young; and one great-grandson, Eli Lloyd.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Johnny Young.
Jim was well known for his carpentry and specialty woodworking while being a mentor to many through his Company, J.W. Young Contracting, Inc., However, his most rewarding role was being a dad and Pa Jim. His family has fond memories of the many ways he expressed his love through his ornery sense of humor and playful shenanigans, from duct-taped presents to tickling his loved ones until they laughed with tears in their eyes.
Jim was very active in his church, faithfully serving the Lord through remodeling projects, maintenance work, driving those in need, and helping with whatever needed to be done. He also proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1956 to 1960. His dedication to his country, family, and church leaves a lasting legacy that will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be held at Kutis Affton Chapel on Monday, June 8, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with funeral services following on Tuesday, June 9, at 11:00 a.m. Donations may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association on behalf of Jim.
Jim will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his courage, kindness, and unwavering commitment to others.