In Loving Memory

James William Wethington

5/3/1941 — 12/28/2024

Bunker Family Funerals

A Life Remembered

Obituary

James William Wethington, 83, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on May 3, 1941, in Casey County, Kentucky, James lived a remarkable life defined by his passions, dedication, and love for his family. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, he served for four years as a simulator technician before attending Purdue University, where he received a bachelor’s degree.

James’ career was deeply connected to his love for flying. After college he worked as a pilot for freight companies, and eventually got hired on with Southwest Airlines, where he spent 21 years as a pilot before retiring. Following his retirement, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by building his cabin and hangar at Mogollon Airpark. James was busy in his retirement where he flew commercial planes, performed aircraft maintenance, and was always serving his many close friends.

James was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and had a profound commitment to service, including a senior mission in Lagos, Nigeria. He enjoyed woodworking and had an unwavering enthusiasm for airplanes, whether flying or fixing them. He was a skilled repairman and was able to problem-solve issues, even if he had no prior experience.

He was preceded in death by his eternal partner, Katherine; his eldest son, Kevin; his wife Dolores, and one great-grandchild, Kyle. He is survived by his loving wife, Alice Franco; his two sons, Michael and Brent; five grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of immense pride and joy.

James will be laid to rest in Mesa cemetery at 1:00 pm on January 10, 2025.

A celebration of James’ life will be held at 11:00 am in Heber, Arizona on January 11, 2025.

Jim will be remembered for his integrity, adventurous spirit, unwavering faith, and the deep love he shared with his family and friends.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com . Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Service Details

Gatherings in remembrance

Service

Friday, January 10, 2025 · 1:00 PM

Messages of Love

From family and friends

Michael Bowyer

To the Wethington Family, thank you for sharing your father and grandfather. As a neighbor and ward member from 30 years ago, Jim was always willing to share his expertise, skills and experience with the young men of the ward. Jim loved to serve and was always quick to volunteer wherever help was needed. A great example of love and service. Thank you!

Mary Beth Adams

My deepest condolences to all of Uncle Jim’s family. He will be greatly missed.

Wayne B. Ross

Mike and family Sorry to hear about your loss. We know your dad‘s in a better place now . thought about your dad the other day when I saw his name in a logbook of an airplane, I was doing an annual loan. He will be missed. Wayne

Richard Oliver

I am very sorry to learn of Jim’s passing. We worked together in the 1970’s and he taught me to fly. I knew Jim to be a fine man, above reproach in all things. He will be missed.

Bob Dombrowski

Captain Wethington was an inspiration to me and helped me to be hired by Southwest Airlines in 1983. Blue skies, great tailwinds and Godspeed my friend. And thank you forever.

Bob Wolf

I flew with Jim when I was a new first officer, at Southwest Airlines, so it was probably 1997, or 1998. He was one of the nicest, warmest people I’ve ever met. Godspeed Jim. We could use more like you!

Adeyinka Ojediran

I met Jim when he served in Nigeria Lagos Mission, and I am grateful to be associated with a man full of love and a worthy example of discipleship. Sad that I was unable to enjoy a leisure flight with him as he always invited, due to church assignments. We will miss a good man, lover of the gospel of Jesus Christ and a warm friend to all who ever crossed his path. Good be with you Jim, till we meet again.

Kunle and Tola Hassan - Nigeria

Jim was a great exemplary missionary when he was in Nigeria. He was full of life and always ready to uplift members spiritually. We met last at the Booth’s resident during the 2024 April conference reunion In SLC. I promised to take up his flight ride on our next trip to the US. He was always ready to give and share his passion. He will be missed . Rest in perfect peace with the Lord, that you have served faithfully.

Tim Boese

Jim always treated me and everyone else as we were just as important as anyone else in the room. Genuinely. Always mentoring. I honestly think reflect upon that kindness & respect quite often and try to emulate it. Be well and take care. Tim

Larry Vaughan

Jim always had a smile on his face and something kind to say every time I saw him. He was a great man of integrity and principle! A true gem of a man! He will be missed by the many friends he made throughout the years. Godspeed Jim!

David Joseph

Jim was a man of many talents. I worked with him in the 1970’s. He taught me to fly and upgrade my license to commercial status. he will be missed.

Norma Jean

Although Jim was my brother-in-law to me he was more like a brother. I was 15 when I first met Jim through my sister Kathy. Jim and his friend Stew were in the Air Force at the time and would come over after church and hang out at our house. It was always so much fun. Later my sister Kathy and Jim were married.All through the years we stayed in touch although not as often in the last few years. I loved Jim and my nephews very much. He will be missed by so many of us. Love you, Norma

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