[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 195 (Wednesday, November 19, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1095]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE LIFE AND MEMORY OF JAMES ``JIM'' NEIL CRAIN

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 19, 2025

  Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to 
commemorate the life of James ``Jim'' Neil Crain and recognize him for 
the excellent work and impact he had on the Grandview community. 
Introduced to public service at an early age as an Eagle Scout, Jim 
dedicated the rest of his life to serving the City of Grandview and 
caring for anyone he crossed paths with. Jim showed endless love for 
his community, and the impact he had will be remembered forever.
  Born on October 3, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri, Jim spent his 
early years studying in the Grandview school system before moving onto 
William Jewell College where he graduated with his bachelors in 1967. 
To further his studies, obtained a master's degree in business 
administration from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. In addition 
to his education endeavors, Jim served during the Vietnam War in the 
U.S. army as First Lieutenant and was later honorably discharged in 
1971.
  As an Operations Manager at Hallmark Cards, Jim had a 34-year 
successful career before retiring in 2004. Being a Grandview native, 
Jim decided to seek ways to get involved with his hometown and 
committed himself to improving and growing the City of Grandview. 
Leading with kindness, service, and compassion, Jim served as a 
Grandview Alderman for 40 years and remained active on the Parks and 
Recreation Commission during his tenure. Jim's dedication to the 
constituents of Grandview is evident through the various groups he was 
involved in, including serving as Board Director for the Grandview 
Assistance Program, and as a founding member of the Grandview Youth 
Court where he acted as treasurer and board member.
  Beyond his professional life, Jim led a life of faith, empathy and 
wisdom. Jim could often be found spending time with his family, 
watching a Kansas City Chiefs game or NASCAR race. He spent his life 
uplifting and empowering the residents of Grandview through his 
leadership and commitment to being a voice for the community. Though 
Jim has passed, his legacy and impact on his community will remain long 
past our mortal lifetimes. I am reminded of Mark 10:45--``For even the 
Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his 
life as a ransom for many.'' Jim's life was one dedicated to serving 
others in need, improving the lives of countless people throughout. 
Jim's legacy will live on through his loving family, friends, and the 
current and future generations of Grandview. As we celebrate and fondly 
appreciate the decades of devoted service from Jim, let us be inspired 
by him to uplift our community.

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