James F. Whitworth

James Fredric Whitworth, 59, of Kansas City, MO passed away peacefully on June 25, 2023.  He was born on June 1st, 1964, in Independence, MO to James P Whitworth and Patty Piper Whitworth.  James graduated from Truman High School in 1982.  He then attended the Kansas City Art Institute and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1988.  He attended the University of Arizona Tucson where he obtained a Master of Fine Arts degree in 1992.
 
James was a lifelong artist, specializing in sculpture. His passion for art led him to teach at the Kansas City Art Institute for 30 years. His mentorship to students and contagious spirit will leave a lasting legacy in the arts community. 
 
James also loved reading, traveling, and being outdoors.  He was an avid sports fan, cheering for the Royals, Chiefs, and the Missouri Tigers.  
 
James was a unique and wonderful person with numerous circles of friends that cherished him greatly.  He is survived by his mother, Patty Whitworth, four sisters - Jane (Curtis) Goss, Susan (Richard) Hunt, Nancy (Doug Ballou) Whitworth, and Rachel (Paul) Retter - as well as fourteen nieces and nephews and fifteen great-nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his father, James P Whitworth.
 
Visitation is scheduled for Friday, June 30, from 9 to 10 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 10:00 a.m.  Both will be held at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 East 39th St S, Independence, MO 64055.  Contributions may be made in James' honor to St. Luke's Hospice House, 3516 Summit St, KC MO 64111.