James "Jim or Jimmy" William Speers

James 'Jim or Jimmy' William Speers, also known as the Montana Mountain Lion, was born in Great Falls, Montana, on January 23, 1944, to Cliff and Kathryn Speers. He spent his adventurous childhood in Chinook and passed away peacefully at home on May 7, 2024, in Valrico, Florida.

Jim was raised alongside his two older sisters, Judy Geockner and Penny Thayer. His father ran Speers Implement Co., a John Deere dealership, while his mother was a 5th-grade teacher. At 18, Jim left Montana to join the Army, serving as a tank operator. Following his military service, he attended Jamestown College in North Dakota, which led to a longstanding career with the Mutual of Omaha Companies.

Jim dedicated 50 years of his life to Mutual of Omaha Companies, leaving a significant professional legacy. Whether he was advising the executive team, training agencies nationwide, or managing his own, Jim's ability to listen and encourage set him apart. His role as an encourager was the hallmark of his life.

Jim and Gail made their home in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where they formed close, lifelong friendships. Together with these friends, they raised their children and traveled the world. Some of their most cherished family memories were made on Bandara Drive, where the foundation of the Speers family was laid. They later moved to Valrico, Florida where they raised the rest of the kids and formed more wonderful friendships.

Jim was a proud, fun and loving father to four children and affectionately known as "Papa" to 13 grandchildren. He is survived by his children, Phil and Nicole, from his first marriage to Karen (Cartrite), and Jeff and Jackie, with his beloved wife, Gail. The joy of his family extended to his grandchildren: John, Connor, and Kate, children of his son Phil and wife Lisa; Jordan, Brianna, and Sam, from his daughter Nicole and her husband Scott Leu; Sommer, Waylan, and Ramsey, from his son Jeff and wife Megan; and four boys, Andrew, Ben, Luke, and Asher, from his daughter Jackie and her husband Scott. Jim cherished every moment spent with them, creating a legacy of love and laughter that continues to resonate within the Speers family.

Jim was a man of warmth, boundless adventure, and unwavering loyalty. He made lasting friendships throughout his life, cherished by all who knew him. His deep love for his family and close friends was immense, leaving a poignant void felt deeply by everyone who loved him. Yet for those who share his faith, this sorrow is tempered with the comforting knowledge that he's with our Lord Jesus in heaven. Jim's life was celebrated on Friday, June 28th, at 10:00 AM at Bell Shoals Baptist Church at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd, Brandon, FL 33511. A reception immediately followed at River Hills Country Club, 3943 New River Hills Parkway, Valrico, FL 33596. Out of town guests are encouraged to email floridafive@outlook.com for hotel accommodations. Instead of sending flowers, the family has requested a donation please be made to Operation Light Force @ https://operationlightforce.com/donate/.

During the reception, time was designated for those who wish to share a few words about Jim. He found great joy in his family and friends, and we look forward to sharing memories of his life with all who knew and loved him..