James Eads

James G. Eads, 78, of Independence, MO passed away July 20, 2012. A visitation will be held from 5:30-8:00 p.m. on Monday, July 23, at Noland Road Baptist Church, Independence, MO. Services at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 24, at Noland Road Baptist Church, with burial to follow at Mt. Washington Cemetery. James was born May 31, 1934 in Dixon, MO to Wayne William and Murrel Essie (Gilbert) Eads. He graduated from Southwest Baptist College, Missouri Valley College and Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. While in school, Jim pastored churches in Gerster, Hartwell and Houstonia. In 1961, the family moved to Kansas City where he pastored Lin-Wayne and Leeds Baptist Churches. He served as director of Baptist Welfare in the early 1960’s. In 1972, Jim became the CEO of National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency (now known as First Call) from which he retired in 1996. He was active with his children’s activities and sports, including serving as East High School Booster Club president. Jim was an avid racquetball and golf player. After retirement, he served on the board of NCADD and Kansas City Community Center. He was a volunteer with AARP income tax preparation, and served as an election judge. He was preceded in death by his parents; as well as his parents-in-law, Reverend E.E. and Mamie Baur. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Naomi (Baur) Eads; four children, Wayne Eads of Greeley, CO, Jaoma Gray (Pete) of Grain Valley, MO, Stephen Eads (Mary Jo) of Redondo Beach, CA, Mark Eads (Lulu) of Hermosa Beach, CA; six grandchildren, Chandra, Stevee Jo, Patrick, Brenna, Jimmy and Jesse; sister, Peggy Harrison (Bill) of Dixon, MO; special G-7 friends; and numerous relatives and friends. Jim was a beloved husband and father, showering his family with love and affection. He was a trusted advisor, counselor, always available, and a calming influence in volatile situations. He brought peace to many with an aura of stability. Jim will be truly missed. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Noland Road Baptist Church, 4505 S. Noland Road, Independence, MO 64055; Walk To Defeat ALS (Eads Eagles Team) 6950 Squibb Road, Prairie Village, KS 66202; MDA/ALS 9200 Ward Parkway # 360, Kansas City, MO, 64114; First Call, 633 E. 63rd St., Kansas City, MO 64110.