James Oliver Leslie, 86, of Lincoln, passed away Easter morning, March 27, 2016. Born July 13, 1929 in Lincoln, NE to Oliver and Hazel (Barnett) Leslie. Faithful husband of Kathryn Ruth (Crawford) Leslie and wonderful grandfather of Carson Robert Leslie who preceded him in death. Surviving him are two sons, James Crawford Leslie and Craig Barnett Leslie and wife Annette; three grandchildren, James Josiah Leslie, Craig Thomas Leslie and Jenna Lynn Leslie.
Jim was a charitable man as shown by his over 50 years of his service with the Sesostris Shrine, his work with the Optimist Club, Cub Scouts, and the funding of an endowment at Bryan Foundation for the benefit of supporting Bryan College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing Students. An Army Veteran of the Korean War and member of the “Greatest Generation”. He was a man of terrific character, ethical, hardworking, loyal, and humble. He was respected and always displayed an infectious sense of humor along with his aura of quietness. He dedicated his career to over thirty years of service with Bryan Memorial Hospital, now Bryan Health. He was an avid sports enthusiast. Enjoyed coaching and watching his sons play baseball, golfer and was a season ticket holder for NU football for over 40 years. He was always proud of his son’s accomplishments, fiercely loyal to his wife, and never passed up a good martini.
Jim was active in Trinity United Methodist Church, Lincoln Lodge #19, A.F. & A.M., Jesters, American Legion, and several professional businesses and civic organizations. He also served as an officer and board member of Cornhusker Better Business Bureau and Hillcrest Country Club.
The family thanks Betty Maun for her support and love the past few years.
Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m. Saturday (4-2-16) Roper and Sons Chapel, 4300 ‘O’ Street with Pastor Darrel Berg officiating. Visitation with family present from 6-7:30 p.m. Friday at Roper and Sons and one hour prior to service time.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to James and Kathryn Leslie Nursing Scholarship Endowment at the Bryan Foundation, 1600 S. 48th (06), Sesostris Temple of the Shrine, 1050 Saltillo Rd. (30), or Carson Leslie Foundation, 16250 Knoll Trail Dr., Suite 210, Dallas, TX 75248.