James Loughmiller

James Atley Loughmiller slipped into eternal peace on Feb. 10, 2017 in Emporia. He was born August 4, 1992 in Wellington. He was the middle of three sons blessed to Joan and Jerry Loughmiller of Wellington.

As a young child, he began to display a lifelong interest in nature and its creatures. His friendship extended to countless stray animals he brought in as pets. He took on the role early in life as the entertainer and ham in the family, and a more kind-hearted kid would be hard to find.

James was a loving son, brother, cousin and friend to many. He was known for his caring and humorous demeanor, and he was naturally quiet and reserved, but was willing to step out of his comfort zone to lend a smile to others.

He attended Washington Elementary, Wellington Middle School and then Wellington High. James spent his summers working as a lifeguard at the Wellington Family Aquatic Center. He was a proud Wellington Crusader who participated in an array of sports.

On the football field, he had the rare pleasure and distinction of having twice personally met Jordan Phillips (and managed to stand up both times), who currently plays defensive tackle for the Miami Dolphins in the National Football League.

After high school, James attended Hutchinson Community College and then Emporia State University, where he was a senior studying to become a high school chemistry teacher. He worked over the summer in Wellington at Futures Unlimited and was currently working at Guion’s Showcase in Emporia. He enjoyed fishing, working out, archery, making interesting class projects and spending time with friends and family.

James is survived by his parents, Jerry and Joan Loughmiller of Wellignton, and brothers Sam of Dallas, Texas and Chris of Emporia, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and his cat Felix.

There will be a prayer service at Calvary Lutheran Church at 1300 N. C St. in Wellington on Saturday, Feb. 18, beginning at 1 p.m. This will be followed by a celebration of life at Washington Elementary School, across the street, starting at 2 p.m. and running until 4 p.m. The celebration of life will be come and go and all are welcome to attend either or both.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either: Calvary Lutheran Church, 1300 N. C St., Wellington, Kans. 67152 or Wellington Humane Society, P.O. Box 494, Wellington, Kans. 67152.