Raymore, Missouri

James Dean Beckner, age 82, passed away on May 16, 2026 at St. Luke's East Hospital.

Jim was born on July 23, 1943 in Sioux City, Iowa. He was the son of Robert H. and Bernice O. Beckner. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Robert, Jr. His family moved to Camdenton, Missouri in 1954 where Jim graduated from Camdenton High School in 1961. His family returned to Nebraska that year, and he became an avid Nebraska Huskers sports fan. He attended over 200 games over his life time. After graduating college in 1964, Jim became a High School teacher and Coach. Jim taught High School Driver's Education, American History, and Psychology and coached numerous sports for more than 30 years.

James and Judith Beckner married on May 30th, 1964. Jim met Judith Lundquist while attending college at Central Missouri State College (CMSU) in Warrensburg. They would have been married 62 years this year.

Jim loved Civil War History. He participated in many Civil War events and movies, including "Blue and Gray," "North and South Part 1& 2," "Geronimo," and "Ride with the Devil". Jim was a founding member of the Missouri Civil War Reenactors Association and co-founder of the Missouri/Kansas Border Network. He was a member of many service organizations and Civil War Round Tables. He received many awards and recognition for educating the public about the Civil War. In 2010 Jim was presented the Missouri Humanities Award for Exemplary Community Achievement. Jim gave his time and talent to many local groups such as the Grandview Historical Society. He never turned down an opportunity to give a speech so others could learn from his love of American History.

Jim was a Christian and was a member of the Ruskin Heights Presbyterian Church before it’s closing, St. Paul’s Methodist church and Summit Church most recently.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Judi, and their children Dott Salyer and Eric Beckner (Kendra), grandchildren Kanyon Salyer, and Kamryn Anaya (Brian), two great grandchildren, sister Linda Rennison, and brother Terry Beckner (Candy).

Visitation and service will be held on Saturday May 30th at the Cullen Funeral Home, 612 West Foxwood Drive, Raymore, MO 64083. Visitation is at 10:00 am followed by the Memorial Service at 11:00 am. Graveside service will be at Forest Hill & Calvary Cemetery, 6901 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64131 following the Memorial service.

Arrangements: Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore, Missouri 816.322.5278