James Paul "Jim" Bunnell

Obituary:

James "Jim" Paul Bunnell, 78, of Southfield, Michigan, passed away on June 6, 2024. He was born on January 17, 1946, in Evanston, Illinois. On November 10, 2012, he received a life saving heart transplant that gifted him nearly 12 more years of quality life with his friends and family. He lived every one of those days with gratitude, and passed away peacefully in his home.

Jim was married to Beverly Bares in 1978 and together they created a loving family. He was a dedicated and adoring father to Jamie (Matt) Roots and Joshua Bunnell, and a cherished grandfather to Charlotte Roots. He was a devoted father, and after being widowed in 2002, he took on the additional roles of mother, friend, and confidant, with love and determination. In his free time, Jim found joy in sailing, working on and driving his Miatas on winding roads, and reading many good novels. Despite the many challenges he faced as a single father, he always maintained his signature dry sense of humor and love of a good pun. He was blessed at the age of 73 to find love and companionship with Maryann Farrar; the two wed in 2019 and enjoyed traveling together and spending quality time with family. In his final years, he took particular joy in playing with his dog, Teddy, and watching his granddaughter grow.

Jim was known for his dedication to education. He taught at Southfield High School until his retirement, and then continued teaching at Southfield Christian School. He was loved by his students for his creative assignments, approachability, and genuine care. In his second retirement he was a beloved member and Elder at Emmanuel Bethel Church. He was a faithful attendee and served in many functions, including leading the sound department, being the administrative assistant to the Pastor, and singing bass in the choir.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother and father, Hortense and William Bunnell, sister Shirley Hojna and wives Beverly Bunnell and Maryann Farrar. Although he made every attempt to stay with his family on earth as long as possible, he found peace in his faith in God and knew that when it was his time he would be welcomed into Heaven.

A ceremony to honor Jim's life will be held on June 19th, 2024 at 3 p.m. at Emmanuel Bethel Church, located at 4000 Normandy Road, Royal Oak, MI 48073.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Gift of Life Michigan at https://giftoflifemichigan.org/charitablegiving/make-a-contribution or registering to become an organ donor.

May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.