Funeral Services for James Ankrum, Age 83 of Mountain Grove, Missouri will be held on Tuesday, June 30th, 2026 at The Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home, Mountain Grove, Missouri, beginning at 2:00 PM. Visitation will precede the service, beginning at 1:00 PM. Burial will be in The Cabool City Cemetery, Cabool, Missouri.
James Elliot “Jim” Ankrum, 83, of Mountain Grove, Missouri, passed away at his home in Mountain Grove, Missouri, on June 25, 2026.
Jim was born on July 11, 1942, in Estherville, Iowa. He graduated from Cabool High School in Cabool, Missouri, with the Class of 1960. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. After his military service, he built a successful career in aviation electronics, eventually retiring from Honeywell in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
In 1965, Jim married Ann Boyd Ankrum, and together they welcomed their daughter, Tracie, who remained the pride and joy of his life.
Jim was happiest when he was outdoors or working with his hands. He loved fishing and hunting and had a remarkable talent for woodworking and fixing just about anything. His daughter often turned to him for advice on home repairs, knowing there wasn’t much he couldn’t figure out. Whether it was a broken appliance, a woodworking project, or a problem that seemed impossible, Jim was always ready to help.
Wherever life took him, Jim made lasting friendships. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. In his later years, one of his greatest pleasures was gathering with friends over a cold beer, solving the world’s problems one conversation at a time.
Above all, Jim treasured his family. He looked forward to every visit from his daughter and grandchildren, and talking with his grandsons on the phone was often the highlight of his day. His greatest joy came from watching his family grow and sharing in their lives.
Jim is survived by his daughter, Tracie Young; his sisters, Janice Carroll and her husband, Butch, and Carol Ankrum; his grandchildren, Megan (Michael) Stuckey, Tanner Young, and Bradley Young; his great-grandchildren, Owen, Levi, and Cora Stuckey; six nieces; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Laura Ankrum of Cabool, Missouri; his brothers, Merlyn Ankrum and his wife, Lela, and Don Ankrum and his wife, Carol; his sister, Marianne Caton and her husband, Owen; and his son-in-law, Billy Young. Jim will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, quiet wisdom, and willingness to help others. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, a family who loved him deeply, and friends who will miss his stories, laughter, and steady presence. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the hands he helped, and the love he shared.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated and compassionate staff of Hospice Compassus in Mountain Grove for the loving care they provided Jim during his final weeks. Their kindness and support made it possible for him to remain at home, where he passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family.
