James Gilbert KING

Jim King, loving husband and father, passed away on June 11, 2023. What an extraordinary man. James Gilbert King was born on May 15, 1943, in Los Angeles. Jim grew up in Newbern, NC. From an early age he was drawn to nature. Jim loved the outdoors and wildlife. He was particularly interested in snakes, and had many as pets throughout his life, along with many other animals. He passed on his love of animals and nature to his daughter. Jim’s magnetic personality shone through by the time he reached high school. From that time and throughout his life he was admired for his wit, intelligence, kindness, charm, creativity, talent for writing, and leadership. Jim became quite a Ladies Man in high school. In fact, most of the entries in his senior yearbook were from adoring female classmates. Jim admittedly enjoyed his bachelor life during his college years and into adulthood. He graduated from college in 1966 with a degree in advertising. Jim compared his college days to the movie Animal House, and his early years in the business world were straight out of the tv series Mad Men. In 1968, Jim’s life changed forever when he met his soul mate, Patricia Louise Norton. Ironically, Jim wasn’t sure if he wanted to see Pat again after their first couple of dates. He decided to give it another shot, and six short months after their first meeting they were married. These were the magical words Jim used to propose: “Well, maybe we should get married or something.” Two years later, their only child, Tracy, was born. Jim was a devoted family man. Every decision and every move Jim ever made was for the good of his family, to strengthen his family, to provide his wife and child with opportunities and experiences that enriched their lives. The traits that so impressed Jim’s friends and classmates were the basis for his success in advertising. He quickly rose through the ranks at various advertising agencies, reaching the highest executive levels. Jim loved advertising, despite the long hours and challenging clients. He was a natural born leader. Jim was proud of his achievements, but never boastful. In fact, few people outside of his circle knew about his years of community involvement and service and philanthropic endeavors. He was incredibly compassionate and generous, and he was always involved in charitable causes. Working with the Partnership for a Drug Free America, serving on neighborhood and senior advisory committees and the Better Business Bureau, supporting wildlife organizations…. Jim always made time to help create a better world. He didn’t care about accolades or awards, although he received many. He didn’t display any, or talk about his achievements, professional or otherwise. His gratification came from the work itself and from helping others. Despite his demanding career and charity work, Jim always put his family first. Jim retired from his advertising career in 2006, and he finally had time to fully enjoy the fruits of his labor. Jim and Pat relocated from San Diego, CA to St. Peters, MO, to be near their daughter, Tracy. Jim enjoyed spending time with his family, especially with his beloved wife. Retirement didn’t stop him from continuing his charity work and trying new things. He even dabbled in acting, performing in local plays and a couple of historical movies. He loved gardening and was an avid reader his entire life. Jim's and Pat’s enduring love lasted 53 years until Pat’s death in 2021. Actually, Jim’s love for Pat never ended, and now they have been reunited for eternity. Jim was well-liked and well-respected by everyone throughout his life, and he was dearly loved by family and friends. He was a very special man, and one of a kind. Jim was the best husband, the best father, the best businessman, the best man period. This tribute ends with a movie line that Jim often quoted: “It’s good to be the King.”

James Gilbert KING

May 15, 1943 - June 11, 2023