James Baine "Jim" Stokesberry Obituary

James Baine "Jim" Stokesberry, 85, Kokomo, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 2:20 p.m. Born October 10, 1939, in Chillicothe, Ohio, Jim was the son of the late James J. and Florence Bell (Ewing) Stokesberry. On March 2, 1968, Jim married Marilyn Bowman in Muncie, Indiana. Together they built a life filled with shared interests and family.

He graduated from Frankfort High School in 1957 and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in business management from Ball State University in 1968. From 1960 to 1962, Jim proudly served in the United States Air Force as a cartographer. He was a member of the American Legion and maintained a lifelong interest in military history. He especially enjoyed discussing historical conflicts and studying war history.

Jim found joy in simple pleasures—fishing, listening to jazz music, and had a love for animals. While living in Florida, he developed a unique hobby of hunting for apple snail shells along the water’s edge.

Along with his beloved wife Marilyn, Jim is also survived by his children, Tom Stokesberry, Dr. Annie Stokesberry and Maria (Jay) Byars; grandchildren, Joseph (Ann) Cooney, Julie Byars and Jacqueline Carter; and great-grandchildren, Hunter Cooney, Izabel Cooney and Elanor Carter.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Jane Kelderman.

In accordance with Jim’s wishes, no services will be held. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made in Jim's memory to Coordinated Assistance Ministries (C.A.M.), 625 N. Union Street, Kokomo, IN 46901.