James Edward "Jim" Kingery

  Lifelong Cortez resident James Edward Kingery “Jim” passed away unexpectedly on April 27, 2023. Jim was born to Roy and Joyce Kingery on October 17, 1953. 

  In June of 1973 Jim enlisted into the United States Army and proudly served his country for three years. Upon his return he married the love of his life, Catherine Marie Kingery “Cathy” on June 26,1976. Together they had two sons, Nicholas and Christopher. 

  In 1996 Jim decided to go to the police academy and become a law enforcement officer. He served with Cortez Police Department working his way up through the ranks from officer, detective and eventually LT detective. In January of 2015 Jim became the undersheriff for Montezuma County and loyally served there until 2018. After 22 years in law enforcement, he retired to spend time with family. 

  Jim was a pillar in the community not only in law enforcement but his church family as well. The lives he touched, educated and molded are too numerous to list. Jim loved working on guns, fishing, camping, tinkering on old vehicles, wood working, creating anything from entertainment centers and small home items to building houses, riding his motorcycle and taking road trips with his motorcycle “gang”, spending time with his family and most importantly his two grandsons. 

He was a true disciple of Christ always willing to help anyone in need and many called upon him for advice and help with many things. 

  Jim is going to be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. The family is comforted knowing that he is at peace with his lord and savior Jesus Christ. 

  Jim was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and numerous aunts and uncles. He is survived by his wife, Cathy of 47 years; two sons, Nick (Breezy), Chris (Devonne); his two, grandchildren, Keegan and Jaxon; his brother, Danny (Robin); sister, Lynn Pedigo (Max); stepmother, Karen Kingery; and many numerous brothers and sister in laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and brothers and sisters in Christ. 

At this time, the family plans to hold a service honoring Jim at a later date. Please plant a tree in Jim’s honor in a place that you find special.