James Miller Heagy, 79, Independence, Mo., died Tuesday, Feb.15, 2011. Visitation will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb.19, at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home, 2117 Independence Blvd., Kansas City, Mo. Cremation will follow.

The family suggests contributions to local animal shelters in care of the funeral home, Passantino Bros.

James was born Dec.16, 1931, in Pennsylvania. He was a proud U.S. Army veteran of Korea. He lived in Leavenworth, Kan., from 1951 to 1970.

He was a great father and grandfather who knew many friends and no enemies. James was a “jack of all trades,” working as a carpenter and warehouseman. But, it was at his work as a bartender at The Golden Ox where he was introduced to the love of his life, Phyllis Calia. They shared many wonderful years together until her death in 2008. He was also preceded in death by two sons, Robert and Tiny Tim.

Survivors include his children, Debra Ayers and Ed Bergman, James Heagy, and Karen Nilles and husband, Guy, Michael Heagy, Brian Heagy and Terri Fryer, Paul Heagy and wife, Vicky; 17 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; his canine companion Sway; brothers, George Heagy, Butch Heagy; and sisters, Susan Plavo and Frances Klahr.