Jimmie Lee Tollison

Jim Tollison, 75, went home to be with Jesus on December 13, 2025. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and pastor, “Brother Jim” will forever be remembered for his genuine smile, love of people, and gift for turning every interaction with someone into a story worth retelling.

Born on September 1, 1950, in Sikeston, Missouri, Jim was the son of Willie and Helen Tollison. He graduated from New Madrid High School in 1968 and soon married the love of his life, Becky, in 1969. From the very beginning, Becky stood faithfully beside Jim, supporting and encouraging him through every season of life and ministry. Their marriage of 56 years was a shining example of commitment, companionship, and shared devotion to Christ.

Together they created a family filled with laughter and unconditional love, raising four children—Jennifer (and Mark) Malugen, Heather (and Ed) Harper, Jimmy (and Julie) Tollison, and Taylor (and Beth Ann) Tollison. In their own ways, they each carry forward Jim’s rich legacy of faith and love that touched everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. Jim was especially proud of and adored by his 12 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, who endearingly knew him as “Papa.”

From 1970 to 1976, Jim proudly served in the National Guard. His call to ministry began in 1977, leading to a lifelong devotion to preaching God’s word. Over the next 48 years, he pastored eight churches with boundless energy, touching countless lives through his preaching, fellowship, and shepherding presence, always supported by Becky’s quiet strength, hospitality, and prayer. Further deepening his commitment to his calling, he continued his education at Central Baptist College, graduating in 1991, an accomplishment that reflected his desire for lifelong learning.

To know Jim was to know joy. He loved fishing on quiet mornings, reading a good book, writing and playing music, or cheering on his kids and grandkids at their countless sporting events—Becky always right beside him. Whether sharing stories at a church potluck or leading a song with his guitar, his presence brought humor and happiness to every gathering. Known for his ability to talk to anyone, anywhere, about just about anything, to him, strangers were simply friends he hadn’t met yet. With his boundless laughter, love of food, and endless storytelling, he could make anyone feel like family within minutes of meeting them. His influence will live on in his family, friends, and in the many congregations and communities he served so faithfully.

A memorial service to celebrate Jim’s remarkable life and ministry will be held on December 29 at 10:00 a.m. in Springdale, Arkansas. His family invites all who knew him to join in honoring a truly extraordinary man who never stopped loving and laughing.