James (Jim) Franklin Huffman, 81, of Helena, Missouri, born June 1, 1944, went peacefully to be with Jesus on February 7, 2026, surrounded by love and leaving behind a life rich in family, friendship, and quiet moments that mattered.
On May 3, 1980, he married the love of his life, Carolyn Elaine Wells, beginning a partnership that would last 46 years, filled with humor, love, and unwavering support.
Jim was a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished Papa who never met a stranger.
He had a playful and onery spirit that could light up any room and a love of coffee that was legendary. He could fix anything, and there was no problem too small or too strange for him to tackle.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Annetta (Swink) Huffman; brothers, Max, Bob, Glenn, Jewell, Bill, J.D., and George Huffman; sister, Margaret Bowland, along with many additional dearly loved family and friends.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; daughters, Christina (Nick) Huffman of Helena, MO, and Kelly Jo (Kyle) Lange of Kansas City, MO; two grandchildren, James Alan Lange and Wyatt Kyle Lange. Additional survivors include sister, JoAnn Hartbauer, brother, Jerry Huffman (Wanona); numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
Jim will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and the warmth he brought to everyone around him and we know he’ll keep the coffee on for us until we meet again.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 13, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Breit-Hawkins Funeral Home in Savannah, Missouri. A Celebration of Life will take place Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., also at Breit-Hawkins. Inurnment at Helena Cemetery in Helena, Missouri. Family and friends will be welcomed to share memories about Jim at the Celebration of Life, and are also invited to join for lunch and fellowship afterward at the Helena Community Center. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Helena Cemetery.
