Jim "The Kid" Chiles

James “Jim” Loren Chiles, 85, of Cleveland, MO, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025.

Born November 26, 1939, in Piper, Missouri, Jim was the son of Loren and Evelyn (Long) Chiles. He graduated Clinton High School in 1958. He was a hardworking and humble man who spent more than 30 years driving a route truck for Frito-Lay. After retiring from Frito-Lay, he wasn’t quite ready to slow down, so he bought and ran his own Mission Chips route for several more years before fully retiring.

Jim married Donna Kendrick in 1983, and they had one daughter. They shared many good years together before her passing in 2006. He was also formerly married to Janice (King), with whom he had two daughters.

Jim’s favorite place to be was on the water. He loved the lake and spent countless days relaxing and making memories at his place on Pomme de Terre Lake. Boating, relaxing, and simply enjoying the quiet — that was his kind of perfect day.

He is survived by his daughters Kim (Darrick) Bruns, Julie (Mike) Chowning, and Jamie (James) Chiles; stepson Jon (Pat) Blankenship; grandchildren Brittany, Seth, Emily, Caleb, and Lyndsey, Jacob, Matthew, Ashlyn; great-grandchildren Rowan, Kamrynn, and Beckham. He is also survived by his sister, Martha (Stan) Knight, along with nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Donna, his parents, a brother, Bill Chiles, and two grandchildren, Luke and Elizabeth Chowning.

Jim will be remembered for his love of family, his strong work ethic (never missing a day) and the peaceful joy he found at the lake.

Per Jim’s wishes, there will be no services at this time. He was a practical man who didn’t want a fuss or expense made over him — just a quiet remembrance and the kind of peaceful day he always enjoyed at the lake.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society. Donations can be made through the link or mailed to Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701.