James “Jim” Robert Jones, 84, was born in Neosho, Missouri, to Palmer and Bertha Jones. He built a career in higher education, teaching economics at the university level in Hays, Kansas, and Moscow, Idaho, where he attained the rank of full professor. His research focused on international agricultural trade and transportation, taking him around the world.

Jim was deeply interested in other cultures and formed lasting friendships with people from many countries. He welcomed international friends into his home and included them in family holidays.

At college in southern Missouri, he met the love of his life, Margaret Elaine Garrison. They were married for 53 years, until her passing. She shared his love of travel, reading, and education, and together they enjoyed many wonderful adventures.

Jim was also passionate about cars and history, especially the Civil War and World War II.

He is survived by his son, Douglas Palmer Jones; his daughter, Robin Elaine Jones (Tiller); and his grandsons, Clayton Lee Tiller and Quinton James Tiller; as well as several nieces and nephews.