James "Jim" Edward Draper

James “Jim” Edward Draper, 87, of Louisburg, KS, passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on March 14, 2024, at Hospice House in Olathe, KS.

Visitation will be held 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, Saturday, April 27, 2024, at Louisburg United Methodist Church, 249 N Metcalf Rd, Louisburg, Kansas 66053. Memorial service will be held immediately following the visitation.

Jim was born in Kansas City, MO, on November 24, 1936, to his late parents, Clark Wesley Draper and Erma (Wylie) Draper. He grew up on his family farm in Olathe, KS, where he graduated from Olathe High School before continuing to Parsons Jr. College and Baker University. He was a Delta Tau Delta fraternity member at Baker, earning a bachelor’s degree in Education. He went on to earn a master’s degree from Colorado State University.

Jim married Beverly (Bear) Draper in 1958, and from that union came his four children - Phillip, Randy, Jamie, and Mary. In 1988, Jim married Janet (Weeks) Draper, and she brought her two children, Liz and Matt, into his life, whom he embraced as his own.

In addition to being a history teacher and guidance counselor, Jim was an esteemed head boy’s high school basketball coach for over 30 years, holding coaching positions at Erie, Arkansas City, Oak Park, Blue Valley, Piper, and Grandview. In 2007, the Greater Kansas City Basketball Coaches Association awarded Jim the Tom Colwell Lifetime Achievement Award.

The countless lives that Jim touched over his career are a true testament that he viewed teaching and coaching as more than just a job. Former players, students and assistant coaches from as far back as 60 years ago still kept in touch.

There wasn’t anywhere Jim went that he didn’t know someone or that someone didn’t know him. On the rare occasion that it happened, by the time he left, he had made a lasting impression on those he met. Jim always had a story ready and was sure to leave you with a smile on your face.

Jim’s love of dogs, deep faith, and dedication to service were shared with his beloved wife, Jan, throughout their 36 years of marriage. They were active members of Louisburg United Methodist Church, helping support the church’s food pantry for many years. Jim also served as a certified lay speaker and board member, among many other roles within the church.

Jim had an incredible love of sports, a passion that connected him with his children and grandchildren. He taught them to win with grace and lose with dignity and was always there for gentle guidance and support when it was needed. His lessons extended to everyday life, and his impact will last a lifetime.

Jim is survived by his wife Janet L. Draper (nee Weeks) of the home; his four children Phillip Draper (Michelle) of Lewisburg, TN; Randy Draper (Michelle) of Grain Valley, MO; Jamie Griffin (David) of Manhattan, KS; and Mary Wasinger (Randy) of Overland Park, KS; his two step-children Elizabeth Long (Brent) of Baldwin City, KS, Matthew Vandree of Helena, MT; sixteen grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and 4 nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Clark & Erma; his twin brother Gerald “Jerry” Draper; his older brother, Clark Wesley Draper; and his niece Joni.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made payable to the Louisburg United Methodist Church Food Pantry.