James W. Fenimore

1935 - 2025

James W. Fenimore

March 18, 1935 - May 30, 2025

James W. Fenimore passed peacefully on May 30, 2025. He was a beloved son, brother, dad, uncle, grandfather and great grandfather.

Jim was born in Montrose, Mo. during the "dust bowl" years to Ward and Catherine Fenimore. He was big brother to Judy Crank (Dale Crank), Sara Erickson (Spencer Erickson) and now deceased John Fenimore (Linda Fenimore). He was the proud uncle and great-uncle to several nieces and nephews.

Early in life, his family moved to Hanna, Wyo., where Jim was raised and graduated High School, then joined the Army. After completing his service in Alaska, he graduated College at the University of Wyoming in Laramie where he earned a teaching degree.

After earning his degree, he moved to Cody, Wyo., to coach PE at the local Junior High School. He soon met and married Cora Wyllie and became the father of two daughters, Tawna McQueen (Rodney McQueen; grandson, Mikey McQueen and granddaughter, Jennifer Lilley) and Tawna's sister, Sara Fenimore (Steve Stoddard; granddaughters, Jamie Visalli and Dena Laws).

Jim taught PE in Cody, then was soon offered the position of teaching Eighth Grade American History. He jumped at the chance and excelled. His classroom was not a boring 4-room space, as on one wall he painted a mural of historical events, and would engage his students to learn history and discuss how history shapes the world they now live in. He taught with a sense of humor, thus engaging his students in learning.

Jim then became a coach of Junior High Football, High School Boys Track, Cross Country Track and transitioned into High School Girls Track. Not to mention his summers coaching Women's Softball.

In 1976, Jim married Shirley Gilbert (now deceased) and they joined their two families of five teenaged children. They were both very brave, and optimistic people. Shirley added Loraine Adams (granddaughter, Madeline Adams); Karen Apel (deceased); Ron Gilbert; (granddaughters, Jessica Gilbert, Katia Gilbert and Jaron Gilbert) to the family. He was the proud grandfather and great-grandfather to several of his and Shirley's children.

Jim retired teaching and coaching after 35 years, in the mid-1990's, and soon he and Shirley moved to Billings, Mont., whereupon they spent the rest of their lives. They enjoyed live theater, movie theaters, dancing, fine dining and multiple friends.

Jim and Shirley traveled many places around the world, and always returned from their trips with many colorful stories and souvenirs of their travels abroad.

Jim lived a full life. He had many long-time friends and lots of family members who loved him deeply. He will be missed but never forgotten.

Per his request, no Memorial will be held. The family will celebrate Jim's life at a later date in Columbus, Mont., whereupon he and Shirley (the love of his life) will be interned, peacefully, and once again together.

The family requests any donations be made to local Meals on Wheels or agencies that help Seniors live a more comfortable life.