James Francis Moloney - 1941 - 2022

James “J” Francis Moloney passed away Monday, January 3, 2022 in the comfort of his home on the family farm in rural Junction City Kansas.

J was born March 10, 1941 in Junction City, a son of Francis Patrick and Irene Lucille (Foy) Moloney. He was united in marriage to Ella Louise Peters on August 31, 1967 at St. Xavier Catholic Church in Junction City where he was a life long member.

Left to honor his memory is his wife (Ella), his loving children; Donny Moloney of Wichita, Michelle Moloney (Jane) of Leawood, Cecilia (Brian) Aruskevicius of Wichita, Jean Moloney of Mariemont OH, Patrick (Erin) Moloney of Shawnee, Sheila (Dan) Smith of Hillsboro IA, Michael
(Courtney) Moloney of Waverly, Megan Moloney (Jerry) of Abilene, John (Jamelle) Moloney of Lawrence, Mary (Korby) Effland of White City, and 27 Grandchildren who lovingly called him “Pops.”

Additional survivors include his siblings; Marilyn Wasylk of Junction City, Foye Moloney of White City, Therese (Charles) Howe of Junction City, 5 nephews, and 2 nieces.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister-in-law (Jody), a brother-in-law (Don), and 2 cousins.

J graduated from Chapman High School in 1959 and continued his education at Rockhurst College in Kansas City, MO and Kansas State University in Manhattan.

J farmed his entire life side by side with his brother Foye in Geary, Morris, and Dickinson Counties. He was very proud to work the land and raise cattle, a shining example of hard work and dedication to all who knew him. Some of his greatest joys centered on his life of farming. He found contentment watching his children and grandchildren in their numerous activities. He was so proud of all of their accomplishments.

J enjoyed taking drives and used the scenic route whenever he could. He was never in a hurry, always taking the time to enjoy life. He loved making surprise visits to his children, sometimes after he had been “missing” for days. He lived his life by The Corporal Works of Mercy; he was generous, kind, and compassionate to the less fortunate...even if it meant he may have to go without. He had a wonderful sense of humor, it seemed he always had a quick and witty comeback. J never met a practical joke he wouldn’t like to try.

Friends may call after 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 7, 2022, at St. Xavier Catholic Church in Junction City. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A rosary will be prayed at 7:30 p.m.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 8, 2022 at St. Xavier Catholic Church.

Burial will be at Vine Creek Cemetery in Ottawa County, Kansas following the service.

Memorials may be made to St. Xavier Catholic Church or Accord Hospice.