Jim P. Kitivoravong

Jim Phoutha Kitivoravong passed away peacefully at his home on September 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family following an illness.

Jim was born on April 5, 1940, in Nakhon Phanom Province, Thailand, to Khemma and Nuon Inthisaeng Kitivoravong. As a young man, he studied in his hometown before continuing his education in Vientiane, Laos. He later worked for USAID as an assistant engineer on road and airfield construction projects in Xieng Khouang Province.

In 1964, Jim met the love of his life, Jane, and they were married that same year. Together, they shared more than six decades of marriage and built a life centered on love, sacrifice, and devotion to their family. They were blessed with four children: Todd, Scott, Mimi, and Phonnie.

In 1978, Jim courageously led his family across the Mekong River to the Nong Khai refugee camp in Thailand in search of safety and a better future. In January 1980, the family arrived in Peoria, Illinois, and began a new chapter in the United States. They later moved to Missouri in 1985 and settled in Olathe, Kansas, in 1987.

Jim worked hard and made many sacrifices to provide for his family. He was a devoted husband, a caring father, and a proud grandfather, and great uncle. His family was the center of his life, and he found great joy in spending time with his children, grandchildren, and nieces. He will be remembered for his gentle smile, quiet spirit, patience, kindness, and steadfast love for those closest to him.

Jim was also a faithful member of Lao-American Baptist Church and a treasured part of the Lao Christian community. He attended church whenever his health allowed and quietly demonstrated his faith through his perseverance, humility, and kindness toward others.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Jane; his children, Todd, Scott, Mimi, and Phonnie, and their families; and his four beloved grandchildren: Corey Kitivoravong, Hailey Kitivoravong, Jacob Reiman, and Ella Reiman.

His family will remember him as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and uncle who faced life’s challenges with courage and placed the needs of his family before his own. The sacrifices he made and the love he gave will remain an enduring part of his legacy.

Although his family and friends deeply grieve his passing, they are thankful for the many years they shared with him and for the memories that will continue to live in their hearts.

Jim will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, church family, and everyone whose life he touched.