Kathryn James

KATHRYN BOSTIAN JAMES of North Little Rock, died Monday, November 21, 2016 with her daughters, sons-in-law and grandchildren by her side. Born on August 19, 1928, in Overcup, Arkansas, she was the daughter of the late Gene and Bessie Bostian. Kathryn graduated from Morrilton High School and upon graduation, moved to Little Rock to attend business school. She married William G. "Bill" James on December 25, 1950 and they were married for 53 years until his death in 2004. She was a teacher at Crews-Sisk Kindergarten to cover tuition for her daughters' attendance there. While her daughters were young, she was a full-time homemaker. She was a member of multiple Parent Teacher Organizations while her daughters were in school and was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader. As the girls got older, she joined the staff of the family business, James Bros., in North Little Rock. After the business was sold, she worked for North Little Rock School District as an elementary school secretary and loved being the "school mom" to many children. A life-long Methodist, Kathryn was very active in her church and was a charter member of the Triune Sunday School Class, holding various offices for that group. She was also very involved with United Methodist Women, an organization that awarded her two honorary life memberships and was an active participant in the Morton-Wayland Circle where she also held various leadership positions. While her daughters were young, she devoted many hours to the Children's Ministry, teaching various Sunday School classes and Vacation Bible School. She would likely say that her biggest achievement was her family. She was a mom through and through, and took great pride in her daughters and her grandchildren. Kathryn was predeceased by her sister Wilma Warren and her brother Robert Bostian. She is survived by her beloved daughters Susan James Hardman (Jay) and Janet James Robb (Don), both of Little Rock. She also leaves her cherished grandchildren, Betsy Robb, James Willis Robb and wife Robyn, Brandon Hardman and Adam Hardman. Other survivors include her cousin, Ruth Warner, who was like a sister to her nephews Garry Warren and Philip Bostian. She also leaves many dear friends including her cherished friend of 56 years and Friday beauty shop and lunch companion, June Lacy. Called "Mama K" by family and friends, she was a constant supporter and cheerleader at her daughters' and grandchildren's various school and athletic events and programs. She never missed one. The family expresses deepest appreciation to the ICU staff at UAMS Medical Center who cared tenderly for her this past week. A service of celebration will be held at 11 a.m. Friday November 25 at First United Methodist Church, North Little Rock, with Dr. Jim Robnolt officiating. A visitation will follow the service. A private committal will be held at Rest Hills Memorial Park prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to United Methodist Women, c/o First United Methodist Church, North Little Rock, Arkansas. Online obituary and guest registry at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.