James Rex Halydier

James Halydier (J.R./Jim) was born in Brady, TX, to Rex and Lillie Belle (Layne) Halydier on July 9, 1938. He moved with his parents as a small child to Ozona, TX, where he graduated from high school and entered the Navy. After serving four years, he met his wife, Bessie (Bess) Whisenant. They married on Oct. 18,1962 in Dublin, TX.

Over the years Jim and Bess lived in Louisiana, New Mexico, California, Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Jim and Bess had two children, Tracy Ray and Christy Lynn. During their early years, Jim worked as a land surveyor, a U.S. Border Patrol Agent, an Immigration Officer, and later as a Federal Investigator for the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). Jim was a farmer and rancher for a few of those years. For many years, Jim served God in the church as a leader, Deacon, and Sunday School teacher.

Jim retired early, and he and Bess led the R.V. life while traveling across the U.S. for 12 years. Jim was asked to come out of retirement to instruct at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in New Mexico where he taught firearms, high speed chases, and other career-critical activities. Jim then retired a second time and moved to San Angelo, TX, until he and Bess moved to Hillsboro, KS, in 2019, to live with their son and later raised miniature Scottish Highland cattle.

Jim is survived by his wife of 63 years, Bessie (Bess) Halydier, his son, Tracy Halydier (m. Dara Rasmussen) and his daughter, Christy Skalnik (m. Brinton Skalnik). He has seven grandchildren: Garrett Halydier, Nathan Halydier (m. Victoria Smith), Aaron Halydier (m. Hannah McCord), Ethan Halydier (m. Eighmy Scott), Lucas Halydier (m. Ariel Armstrong/Ocheltree), Calley Skalnik (m. Dane Kelly), and Courtney Skalnik. James leaves behind 13 great grandchildren.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Rex Halydier, his mother, Lillie Belle (Layne) Halydier, and his brother, Bobby Halydier.

Jim will be remembered for his smile that lit up the room, his strong, but quiet constitution, his unwavering faith in Jesus, an undying love for his wife, and his voracious love of Westerns – books and movies.

Jim and Bess both have resided at Parkside Homes where she will continue to live. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Parkside Homes, 200 Willow Rd, Hillsboro, KS, 67063. Make checks payable to Parkside and write “For Jim Halydier” in the memo. The family extends their appreciation.