James Melvin Flynn, born on May 8, 1941, in Valley, Nebraska, passed away on September 24, 2023, after a courageous 13-year battle with cancer. He was a man of unwavering strength and determination, leaving behind a legacy of love, family, and service.

James was the beloved husband of Linda Flynn, a loving father to his son Mike (Angela) Flynn and daughter Molly (Chad) White, a cherished grandfather to Katelynn Flynn, Kerrigan (Jared) Flynn, Blake and Brook Patton, Ethan, and Lauren White, and a proud great-grandfather to Lainey, Stetson, and Tripp Bateman.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Dorothy Flynn, his brother John Flynn, his sister Judy McGowen, and his grandson Dakota Flynn.

James's life was marked by remarkable achievements and a deep love for family. He graduated from Valley High School in 1958 and, at the young age of 16, embarked on his academic and athletic journey at Midland College in Fremont, NE. There, he lettered an impressive 12 times in three sports-Basketball, Football, and Tennis-and was inducted into the Midland Hall of Fame in 2004, an honor recognizing his exceptional talent and dedication to sports.

Following his time at Midland, James moved to Elwood, NE, where he pursued a career in education. He taught History and coached sports for Elwood schools, influencing the lives of many students with his passion for learning.

In Elwood, James met the love of his life, Linda Rupe, at a Christmas dance. They married on June 4th, 1964, in Eustis, Nebraska, beginning a beautiful journey together.

James continued his pursuit of knowledge and earned his Masters Degree in Administration from Kearney University. During this time, James and Linda extended their family through adoption, welcoming their son Michael and, a few years later, their daughter Molly.
James's commitment to education led him to Louisville, where he dedicated 31 years of his life to shaping young minds as the Elementary Principal at Louisville Elementary School. He retired from his role at the age of 65, leaving a lasting legacy of excellence in education.

In retirement, James relished spending time with his family and found fulfillment in working for the funeral home in Louisville, NE, where he offered support and comfort to those in need during challenging times.

James had a passion for football, gardening, and fishing, and he generously shared his time and talent as a mentor for many, Cub Scout leader and a Little League coach. He was also a devoted member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, where he served as an Elder, taught Sunday school, and remained a faithful member since his move to the area.

James Melvin Flynn will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, an exceptional educator, and a dedicated community member who touched the lives of many with his kindness and generosity. His memory will forever shine brightly in our hearts.

A funeral service for James will be held Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 11:00 AM at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Louisville. Visitation will be Tuesday, September 26, 2023, from 1 - 8 PM, with family greeting friends from 6 - 8 PM, at the funeral home in Louisville. Burial will be held Thursday, September 28, 2023 at the West Eustis Cemetery, Eustis, NE at 2:30 PM.

Memorials should be directed to the family for future designation, honoring James's legacy and dedication to his community and loved ones.

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Fusselman-Allen-Harvey Funeral Home - Louisville on Sep. 25, 2023.