St. George, Kansas - James "Jim" Arlyn Sperman, 83, of St. George, Kansas, peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones on December 8, 2025 after a short illness.
Jim was born on June 30, 1942 to William and Violet Sperman in Tipp City, Ohio. After several moves with his family, he graduated from Derby High School in 1960. His curiosity about the world around him and his love of learning led him to pursue further education. He went on to receive his Bachelor of Science degree in Education and also Biology from Kansas State Teacher's College (Emporia State) in 1965 and his Master of Science degree in Education from Kansas State University in 1972.
In 1967, Jim met Florence Batson at a church dance in Emporia, Kansas. She had come with some mutual friends, but being the beauty she was, found herself being hounded by one of the musicians. Jim being the epitome of a gentleman, helped her out of the situation. They fell in love and were forevermore lifelong partners. Jim and Florence were married on October 28, 1967 and moved to Manhattan, Kansas. They went on to have three amazing children - Sonya, Sherry, and James.
Jim and Florence were always open about their love for one another - sneaking kisses while making dinner, dancing around the house, and holding hands wherever they went. Throughout their life, Jim always opened her car door and helped her out, and as they aged, was often carrying her purse for her since it weighed a ton. Their marriage of 58 years was as beautiful and wonderous as their song "Through the Years".
Jim was predeceased by his parents William and Violet Sperman, his brothers Dale and Bill Sperman, his sister Beverly Riddle, and his heart sister Donna Lindell. He is survived by his wife Florence, his three children - Sonya Paph and her husband Michael, Sherry Sperman, and James Sperman, two grandchildren - Ryker Sperman-Wiens and Josie Sperman, and his sister Nancy Rogers Klassen. He is also survived by his heart brothers Joe Clouse and Richard Sach.
The family plans to have a private graveside service, with a celebration of life at a later date. Jim's full obituary tribute can be read at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home website.Memorials may be made to the Manhattan Parks and Recreation Flint Hills Summer Volleyball League and sent in care of the funeral home.Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502 is handling arrangements.