James Robert "Jim" Wharton was born July 14, 1921 on the family farm near Anthony, Kansas, son of Benjamin W. and Josie (Lucus) Wharton. He attended Goss School west of Shook, Kansas.

Jim grew up in the Hopewell Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder and was currently the longest living member. One day a lady at church asked Jim to sing with Gwendolyn Hormel and that was the beginning of many happy years of harmony. Music was always a part of their lives.

On November 9, 1944, Jim was united in marriage with Gwendolyn Hormel at the Hormel farm near Anthony. This union was blessed with two children: Connie and Larry. The family made their home on a farm west of Anthony.

Jim was a farmer all of his life. He loved to work on the farm. He was also an accomplished wood worker. He made many pieces of furniture for his children, grandchildren and friends.

On June 26, 2017, Jim passed away surrounded by his family at the Anthony Community Care Center at the age of 95 years. He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; and four sisters.

Jim will be deeply missed by his wife of 72 years, Gwendolyn; his children: Connie Vardy and husband, Dennis, and Larry Wharton and wife, Roxan; 5 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 29, 2017 at Prairie Rose Funeral Home in Anthony with Pastor Jeff Enabnit. Burial will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery, Anthony.

Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Prairie Rose Funeral Home in Anthony.

Memorials in memory of Jim may be made to the Anthony Community Care Center or to any Anthony Church of Donor's Choice, and may be sent in care of the funeral home.

Prairie Rose Funeral Homes, 602 E. Main St., Anthony, KS 67003, is in charge of arrangement.