Kari Denise James

Kari Denise James obituary, St. Louis, MO

Kari Denise James

Kari James Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Apr. 14 to Apr. 15, 2023.
So many of us are devastated by the loss of our dear Kari Denise James after her 4 year struggle with cancer. Kari was born on August 12, 1957, in St. Louis, Missouri, and died peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on March 27, 2023, far too soon. The family would like to thank the many doctors, nurses, and hospice team of BJC for their knowledgeable and tender care.

Kari's parents, Don and Helen James, predeceased her several years ago. However, Kari is survived by her husband of 14 years, William Kelly, and by her brother Rob James, sister-in-law Beth James, and their children: Baron, Ryker, and Berlin. Although it may be hard to picture Kari as a grandmother, she was exactly that to Bill's 4 grandchildren. She is also survived by the myriad people whose lives she impacted so beautifully and who already miss her talent, guidance, humor, and joy.

Kari attended both John Burroughs School and Lafayette High School, and graduated with honors from St. Louis University with a degree in Accounting. Throughout the years Kari held several positions as accountant or bookkeeper and even earned her commercial real estate license, but her lifelong passion was dance. Her entire life was spent as a dancer: performing, choreographing, teaching. She studied and performed jazz dance and tap in both New York (Broadway Dance Center) and Los Angeles (Joe Tremaine Dance Center) and shared her vast talent with other dancers in St. Louis for many years, giving those of us who danced as kids an opportunity to do what we loved by taking the stage once more as adults. Her choreographic and teaching skills could be seen and admired at her own studio Steps Unlimited, at COCA, at Washington University, and St. Louis Academy of Dance. Kari also shared her expertise by traveling to various cities across the U.S. participating as a judge for dance competitions. Anyone who took part in Kari's classes knew that was the place for the coolest music and newest dance steps to become part of the repertoire. There is not enough room here to tell you how much she was loved and admired. We are heartbroken that she is no longer with us in this world.

Please make any donations to a cancer charity of your choice.

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April 21, 2023

Arnold Wilson posted to the memorial.

April 21, 2023

Arnold Wilson posted to the memorial.

April 21, 2023

Jim Hershey posted to the memorial.

Arnold Wilson

April 21, 2023

Kari james, the queen of steps, Unlimited. She would never be forgotten. One thing I can say... I think most of you would agree on this comment. she's dancing straight to heaven and that's how we see her. dancing was her uniform in Jesus name.

Arnold Wilson

April 21, 2023

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Jim Hershey

April 21, 2023

So sorry to here this news, though many of us lost contact with Kari in/after 9th grade. Middle school is a hard time for everyone, but she carried it with poise and grace, as clearly she did on an ongoing basis. Condolences to Kari's family and friends. Signed, an early classmate.

Cathie Mullins

April 18, 2023

I spent many very happy hours learning and dancing with Kari-lovely dancer and person.

margie lewitt

April 16, 2023

Kari exuded spark and warmth. She was a wonderful, talented teacher, choreographer, and dancer. Kari made dance fun for everyone. She was a smart, beautiful woman. Kari was loved and adored by many. Now she will be loved, adored and missed by many.

Cathy M.

April 16, 2023

So sorry to see this. As an occasional but long-time follower of Kari's dancing instruction, I remember her beautiful style and enthusiasm from her days at COCA and then again on Manchester. She made dancing fun for us uncoordinated types! Thanks for all the hours of inspiring dance, Kari. You were a joy to watch as you portrayed your talents! May you now rest in peace.

Theresa Karutz

April 16, 2023

Kari's love for dance and teaching will remain with me for a lifetime. She instilled an immense joy of different choreographic styles which was incredibly uplifting to her students. I miss her immensely and know she is in His infinite care. My condolences to Kari's family and long list of friends.

Ann Scheumbauer

April 16, 2023

She was a brilliant dancer and teacher! May she Rest In Peace

Mitchell Hunt

April 15, 2023

Such a beautiful lady inside and out. The world is less without her in it.

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April 21, 2023

Arnold Wilson posted to the memorial.

April 21, 2023

Arnold Wilson posted to the memorial.

April 21, 2023

Jim Hershey posted to the memorial.