JAMES RUFUS KING, JR.

James Rufus King Jr. was born on June 1, 1932 in Kansas City, Missouri. He was the only child of James R. King, Sr. and Margurette V. Johnston King.

He attended Lincoln High School from 1944 to 1948. After he graduated, he attended Lincoln University from 1948 to 1950. In 1952, he enlisted in the Army and served in the Korean War. After two years of service, he was honorably discharged with the rank of corporal. He also earned a Korean Service Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star, a Good Conduct Medal, a United Nations Service Medal, and a National Defense Service Medal for his service in the war.

After serving, James worked for the postal service as a mail handler for 29 years, until his retirement in 1992.

James was a member of St. Therese Little Flower Catholic Church for many years. He was active in his church community as well as the Lincoln High Class of 1948 Alumni Association. He enjoyed listening to jazz, watching Westerns, and socializing with family and friends.

James passed on October 26, 2020. He was preceded in death by his mother and father. He is survived by his daughter Allison Wood (Tyrone), his granddaughter Briana Wood, his aunt Gloria Carter, several cousins: Kenneth Goodwin, Deanna Lloyd (Frank), Michael Johnson (Lisa), Elsie Jefferson, Allen Johnston (Sharon), Lawrence Beard (Blondell), and Saundra Thompson, his dear friend Marie Holmes, and other relatives and friends. He will be deeply missed by all of his loved ones.

Private Services will be held  at St. Therese Little Flower Catholic Church. Interment in the Leavenworth National Cemetery.
Out of respect for the family's wishes and specific concerns for the health and well-being of all, there will be no public visitation or funeral service.

The services will be live-streamed on the following website: https://www.mstcsunset.com/ on Wednesday, November 4, 2020 at 11:00 a.m.

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