James Ray Staples, 83, passed away on December 18th, 2024, after battling Parkinson’s disease. Jim was born and raised in the sandhills of Arthur, Nebraska, and loved sharing quirky tales of his adventures growing up with his five siblings, extended family, and close friends, including many animals he trained as pets that he considered friends. Throughout his life, Jim remained deeply connected to his roots and valued his small-town upbringing. As a young man, Jim followed his passion for art to Colorado where he earned his certification from the Colorado Institute of Art. There he met the love of his life, Alice, who would become his wife of 59 years. Together they raised their beloved children, Tina and Tim, in a house he designed in Englewood. His family, and later his grandchildren, became the center of his universe. Jim built a successful career designing and installing signs as a commercial artist; eventually establishing his own company, deSIGNSunlimited. His creative spirit extended far beyond his work though. His paintings skillfully captured images of his children, grandchildren, family, and special places. Throughout his life, he continually brought beauty to the world through his artwork, which remains treasured by family and friends. A cornerstone of Jim’s life centered around building and supporting community. He established deep bonds with both his and Alice’s extensive family, where he became a cherished son-in-law, brother in-law, uncle, and great-uncle. Jim also found great joy in the Englewood United Methodist Church community, where he performed in the choir and bell choir, sponsored the youth group, and lent his talents in any capacity needed. Here he also developed some of his deepest friendships and many cherished memories. His commitment to service extended to the Sheridan School District, when Tina and Tim were school-aged, where he attended countless events, built theatrical sets and homecoming floats, served on committees, and forged lasting connections with families, students, and staff. This commitment later extended to both the Englewood and Denver school districts when Alice went back to work as a teacher. Throughout his life, Jim held a strong passion for learning and exploration. He seized any opportunity to enhance his understanding of nature, history, or geography, sometimes to the chagrin of his family. Jim’s various “collections” stemmed from this passion, with extensive accumulations of maps and rocks. His travels—from family adventures in a VW pop-top camper to Mexican excursions with Tim's family or a trek to Costa Rica to meet distant relatives — reflected his love of exploration. Even a simple walk along the Platte River became an opportunity for discovery. Jim’s genuine curiosity and ability to find fascinating things wherever he went remained strong throughout his life, a trait that made him a great father, grandfather and uncle. When his grandchildren arrived, Jim showered them with love. This included bolstering the swing set, purchasing a slip and slide, and enhancing the snack options available at the house. Jim eagerly offered to shuttle them around town, attend their performances and games, and take them on adventures. He also bestowed within them a love and appreciation for art. He took great pride in each one of them and always made sure they were cared for and happy. Overall, Jim held a remarkable gift for making others feel seen and valued. His genuine warmth and kindness drew people in. He made strangers into friends wherever he went. Jim took particular care in noticing people on the periphery and bringing them into the fold. This kindness and compassion touched countless lives. His absence will be deeply felt by family and friends who will always hold him with love. Jim was preceded in death by his older brothers Don Staples and Kenneth Staples and his sisters Nadean Chandler and Janet Magnuson. He is survived by his wife, Alice Staples; his children Tina Cassens and Tim (Yolanda) Staples; his grandchildren Chloe and Brooklynn Cassens, Gigi Brust, Madelyn Staples, and Ryder Staples; his brother Maurice (Gladyth) Staples; his sisters-in-law Leila Staples and Betty Keddington; his brother-in-law Gordon Snowbarger; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 25th, at 1:30 PM at Spirit of Hope United Methodist Church located at 4300 South Lincoln Street in Englewood, CO 80113, with a reception to follow.