With great sadness the Estep Family announces the death of Rev. James Leroy Estep, age 95, of Wentzville, Missouri.  He passed on Friday, August 4, 2023 at home, with his wife, Sandy, at his side. He was born February 6, 1928 in St. Charles, Missouri, the beloved son of Thurman L. and Blanche S. Estep. Jim graduated from St. Charles High School in 1945, then enlisted in the United States Navy, and passionately loved his country.  His service included NTC, San Diego, CA, NAS, Pearl Harbor, TH and NAF, Johnston Island. He was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, and the American Theatre Medal. Jim then attended Jefferson City Junior College in 1949; Central Methodist College in Fayette, Missouri in 1951; Iliff School of Theology in Denver in 1952; and attended Southeast Missouri State College in the summer of 1969. Jim's knowledge and skills, which he always credited to his exceptional upbringing, opened the door for his many interests. His interesting travels, hobbies and varied occupations made Jim's stories legend. Besides serving as a Pastor, he particularly enjoyed teaching; riding motorcycles, flying airplanes, building, fixing  and always learning; in general doing the unexpected. Jim and Sandy were married on December 8, 1974, in Shelbina, Missouri, where he was a pastor. They were the subject of many discussions due to their 26 year age difference. They operated as a team during their 49 years together, dedicated to serving the Lord in whatever capacity they could, encouraging young people and making their lives an adventure. He treasured memories of family gatherings of the blended families. Jim enjoyed Sandy's efforts to try to maintain the family genealogy, which was so lovingly recorded by his mother. He also dearly loved the congregations and communities he served during his 37 years as a United Methodist Minister, and 11 more years as a retired minister serving their beloved churches in Tioga and Collinsville, Texas. Jim served in Moscow Mills/Old Alexandria from 1983-1989. He will be remembered lovingly by all those who knew him.

Jim is survived by his wife of almost 49 years, Sandra (Burfield) Estep, and their children: Matthew and Michael Estep, his children; Brenda Estep, Glenda Estep, Rhea Horstman, Thurman Estep, Mary Gaines and Blanche Estep; 22 precious grandchildren, Jim and Sandy raised granddaughter Madelyn Michelle Estep during her younger life; 38 special great grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren for a total 73 descendants; as well as many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his loving son, Christopher James Estep, and brother, Willis Estep.

Visitation is scheduled for Monday, August 7, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the McCoy-Blossom Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1304 Boone Street, Troy, MO, 63379, 636-528-8244 .

A funeral service to also be held on Monday, August 7, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home in Troy., with full military honors. Officiating will be Rev. Bill Secoy. Interment to follow in the Old Alexandria Cemetery, Troy, MO. Pallbearers will be: Kevin Horstman, Paul Drake, David Cook, Robert Gaines, Dalton Shanks, Josh Schlottke, and Robert Morgan.  Memorial donations may be made to the Old Alexandria United Methodist Church or donor's choice.  Friends and family are invited to visit our website at mccoyblossomfh.com to sign the on-line guest register.