James “Jim” Edgar Lied
September 24, 1950 – November 19, 2024

James “Jim” Edgar Lied was cleared for his final flight on November 19, 2024, surrounded by love and leaving a legacy of an extraordinary life. Born in Chester County, Pennsylvania, on September 24, 1950, Jim spent his life soaring through the skies and capturing the beauty of the world below.

From a young age, Jim’s heart was in the sky, and his fascination with aviation grew into a lifelong passion. Jim studied Space Technology at the Florida Institute of Technology during the Apollo era and graduated from the University of Louisiana at Monroe with a degree in professional aviation. His education laid the foundation for a prolific 51 year career as a professional pilot, flying ambassadors, world dignitaries, senators, representatives, governors, doctors, surgical teams, business leaders, friends, and family. Jim earned the admiration of all who witnessed his unmatched skill, and his flying stories were legendary.

Jim was also an award-winning professional photographer, forever capturing sunsets, dancers in motion, and the beauty of the world he loved so much. Whether in the cockpit or behind the camera lens, Jim saw life through a unique perspective, always aiming for perfection.
More than anything, Jim adored his family. He was married to his wife and favorite co-pilot, Kathy Evans Lied, for 51 years. Together, they traveled the world, hand in hand, living the kind of love story most only dream of. Their bond was the example of what marriage should be: a partnership of unwavering support, joy, and adventure.

His daughter, Tonya Lied-Peele, was the light of his life, and Jim cherished every moment as her greatest cheerleader. He traveled the country taking pictures of her, and was her constant source of support and encouragement. Jim loved his son-in-law Daniel Peele, trusting him wholeheartedly to care for Tonya with the same unwavering devotion and support that Jim himself had always given her.

Jim’s legacy extended to his beloved nieces, nephews, and pageant granddaughters, whom he adored and mentored with pride and joy.

Jim was a man of many passions and accomplishments. An active member of Union Fraternal Lodge #53, and a Past Master at West Monroe Masonic Lodge #419, he dedicated 49 years to the Masonic craft. Jim’s obsession with weather was unmatched, and his frequent weather update texts reflected his innate desire to protect and help the people he loved. Jim was a member of Farmerville Methodist Church, enjoyed spending time on the water, and was a lifelong student of knowledge and random trivia.

Jim’s love of storytelling was as legendary as his flights. Whether sharing tales of the skies, history, or his vast experiences, he always had a story to tell—and a lesson to share. His wealth of knowledge and sharp wit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Jim’s final flight ascended to Heaven, where the skies are forever calm, and the horizons stretch endlessly. His life was a masterful journey of navigating storms with knowledge, lifting others with love, and soaring to heights few could imagine. As he touches the face of God, his family and friends take comfort in knowing that Jim’s legacy will forever be carried on the wings of those who loved him.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Hilda Lied; his brother, Edward Lied; and his sister, Lois Shaffer.

A celebration of Jim’s remarkable life will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Kilpatrick Funeral Home, 202 N Main St, Farmerville, LA. Visitation will begin at 12:30 PM, followed by services at 2:00 PM with Rev. Hank Hamilton officiating.

“He has slipped the surly bonds of earth…to touch the face of God.” -John Gillespie Magee Jr.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com.

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