James "Jim" Ray Forsythe

James Ray Forsythe, formerly of Ozark and Bismarck, Missouri, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of February 20, 2026, at Brookdale Assisted Living in Tullahoma, Tennessee, at the age of 87.

Jim was born on September 21, 1938, in Hurryville, Missouri, to the late Melvin and Ina (Reese) Forsythe.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene May (Jamirson) Forsythe, who passed away in 2021; three brothers, William Earl Forsythe, Chalmer Leo “Hank” Forsythe, and Donald Wayne Forsythe; and one sister, Ada L. “Besse” (Forsythe) Pyatt.

Jim is survived by his son, Stanley Ray (Teresa) Forsythe; his daughter, Vicky Lynn (David) Edgar; and three stepdaughters, Linda (Rick) Armstrong, Sharron Skaggs, and Michelle (Brandon) Allen. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild; his sister, Dorris Jean (Forsythe) Ross;and many nieces, nephews, and other cherished relatives.

Jim had many dear friends, including his fishing buddies and his morning coffee group, with whom he met daily to discuss the latest “news.” He had a great smile and anyone who got to know him loved him.

An avid fisherman, Jim especially loved fishing for walleye and operated his own guide service for many years on Bull Shoals Lake. He was also a skilled building contractor who owned his own construction business, building many custom homes in the Farmington area and later, alongside his brother Don, constructing numerous homes in the Branson area. He was a member of Carpenters Union.

Jim was a strong Christian man and a devoted member of Selmore Baptist Church in Ozark, Missouri. During his time at Brookdale Assisted Living, he faithfully read the complete Bible three times from Genesis to Revelation.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 28, at Cozean Memorial Chapel and Crematory in Farmington, Missouri. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will immediately follow at Hillview Memorial Gardens in Farmington.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice.