James G. Earnest

BENKELMAN -- James G. Earnest, 71, of Stratton died Thursday (Jan. 29, 2004) at Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman.

He was born Nov. 18, 1932, to George and Flossye (Alden) Earnest in Stratton. He attended Stratton Schools.

On July 3, 1957, he married BL "Bev" Sailors of McCook. He worked construction for several years and returned to Stratton where he worked for Wayne Rath at the Skelly Service Station from 1963-1970. In 1970, Jim gained employment at Miller Manufacturing Co., in Stratton where he worked as a painter until the plant closed in 1981. He then opened his own body shop.

He was a member of the Community United Methodist Church in Stratton and a former member of the Stratton Community Club, the Stratton Volunteer Fire Department and the Fraternal Order of Eagles in McCook.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Flossye Earnest; sister, Novalee; and brother, George Alden.

Survivors include his wife, Bev Earnest of Stratton; daughters, Jeannette Earnest, Joy Funk and husband, Bob, all of Culbertson; son, James Earnest and wife, Kris of Stratton; and seven grandchildren.

Services were today at Community United Methodist Church in Stratton with the Rev. Norman Prather officiating. Interment was at the Bird City Cemetery in Bird City.

Memorials may be given in his name.

Forch Funeral Chapel of Stratton is in charge of the arrangements.