James Lee “Jimmy” Whitford, 66, died peacefully on June 10, 2026 at his home in Volga, Iowa. He was born to Jim and Dalene Whitford on August 3, 1959, in West Union, Iowa.
James graduated from Central Community High School in 1978 and worked at the Volga Coop while continuing to work on the family farm in Volga. He then became a full-time farmer and acquired a farm adjoining the family farm. He worked in partnership with his parents and with his brother Forrest. He was particularly gifted in caring for the dairy herd and raising calves.
James married the love of his life, Jeannette Alpasin, on July 30, 2011 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua Iowa and God blessed them with four children, James, Josiah, Julia and Jessica. He adored his wife and children and treasured the time they spent together at home, traveling, and visiting family and friends. He enjoyed singing in church and was active in the community as a township trustee.
James was a man of deep faith and was an active member of Calvary Bible Church. His faith sustained him through the challenge of cancer with steady strength, kindness and wisdom as he was faced with difficult choices. He lived with courage, continuing to love his family, smiling through the fatigue, and modeling resilience and a sustaining faith. Jeannette and children always felt safe and cherished and his legacy is written on their hearts.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jim Whitford and sister-in-law Sherry Whitford.
James is survived by his mother, Dalene Whitford of Volga, Iowa; his brothers Forrest (Glenna) Whitford of Volga, Iowa; Kevin (Carolyn) Whitford of Rochester, Minnesota; Brad Whitford of Le Claire, Iowa; and Colonel Dean (Brenda) Whitford of Copperas Cove, Texas. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who hold fond memories of him close to their hearts.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate James’s life at a visitation at Calvary Bible Church in Volga, Iowa at 3 -7 PM June 25, 2026 and at 1-2 PM on June 26, 2026, with the funeral following at 2 PM at Calvary Bible Church in Volga, Iowa. Burial at Hillcrest Cemetery in Volga, Iowa immediately following the service.
Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Elkader is assisting the family.