James (Jim) Michael McCord, 73, of Fairbury, passed away September 11, 2019, surrounded by loving family.  James was born February 5, 1946 in Fairbury, NE, to Roy D. and Marjorie (Shane) McCord.

With a rural, agricultural upbringing he started elementary school at Kesterson country school until completing the 8th grade, finishing high school at Fairbury High.  During high school he was active in 4-H, saddle club, and athletics.  James attended the University of Nebraska Lincoln where he played football from 1964-1967.  As a Husker, James was an honored player and inducted into the Nebraska Football hall of fame in 2002.  He also pledged as an active member of Alpha Tau Omega and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education.  While attending university, he met and united in marriage with Ann H. Gove, November 24, 1967.  To this union were born Matthew, Sara, Megan and Emily.  During his time in Lincoln, James was an officer with the Lincoln Police Department.

Knowing his passion for agriculture, James and Ann returned to the family ranch in Fairbury.  He had a life-long focus to improve the grassland and preserve the resources necessary to produce beef.  As a skilled horseman and cowboy, James was always willing to help friends and neighbors, and competed at the sport of team roping.  With every adventure he was known to be one tough cowboy, having a good time, with a story to share.  He was never slowed by injury or illness, nor discouraged by failed plans.  His greatest joy was spending time with his children and grand-children and supporting their various sporting and extracurricular activities.  His love of mentoring others will allow his knowledge and legacy to live on…  

James was preceded in death by his wife, Ann McCord.  He is survived by his son Matthew McCord (Jill Livingston) of Fairbury; daughters Sara Carroll (Brian) of Olathe, KS, Megan Burkey (Tyler) of Milford, NE, and Emily Brown (Jonathan) of Owasso, OK.  Grandchildren include Thorne, Sondra, Jonathan, Jaden, Karly, Natalie, Brett, Arriana, Sydney, Lucas; four great grandchildren; sister Janet Murphy, Oshkosh, WI; nieces, nephews and numerous friends. 

The family would greatly appreciate submission of stories, pictures and memories of Jim to [email protected].

Services will be Friday, September 20, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Fairbury.  The family will greet friends on Thursday evening from 6 – 8 at the funeral home.  Memorials will go to the Family’s Choice.  Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home in Fairbury is in charge of arrangements.  www.gerdesmeyerfh.com