Jim Kuykendall, 81, of Denton passed away June 28, 2025, in Dallas. He was born June 14, 1944, in Terre Haute, Indiana to James and Loretta Kuykendall.

He married Sue Smithers on October 9, 1982, at First Baptist Church of Denton. They are members of the First Baptist Church of Denton. He was active in the Emergency Response Team at FBCD.

He attended Indiana State University. Jim left Indiana in February 1966 to move to Denton, Texas. Later in Jim's career he was a Systems Analyst for Moore Business Forms and EDS. After retiring he was a Volunteer for Denton Regional Medical Center and then became a CNA while working at the hospital.

In 2002, Jim received the gift of life through a heart transplant, an event that gave him 23 more years with his loved ones. He lived those years with quiet strength and deep gratitude.

He was a middle and high school football official for 40 years with the Denton and Dallas Football Officials Association as an Umpire. He received a Lifetime Achievement award for his years of service with the DFOA in 2011.

Jim was honored to have a son and grandson named after him. Clint James Kuykendall and Truitt James Kuykendall.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Sue Kuykendall of Denton and sons David Smithers and wife Breana of Argyle, Allan Kuykendall and wife April of Argyle, Clint Kuykendall and wife Ashton of McKinney. Also survived by sister Jeanine Weger and husband Tom of Noblesville, IN, and sister-in-law Candi Kuykendall of Gainesville, FL. As well as sisters-in-law Cheryl Maddux and husband Dennis, and Cindy Sansom and husband Jeff all of Denton.

Also survived by his adored grandkids Rylee Bren Smithers, Ryder Gray Smithers, Mallory Kate Kuykendall, Truitt James Kuykendall, and Gentry Paige Kuykendall all of Argyle. Along with five nephews and three nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Dr. Gerald Kuykendall of Gainesville, FL.

Visitation will be Wednesday, July 2nd, from 5-6:00 p.m. in the Chapel of DeBerry Funeral Directors, funeral services will begin at 6:00 p.m. in the Chapel.