James Cottam Prince

St. George, Utah – James “Jim” Cottam Prince, 85, wrapped up his earthly adventure on November 15, 2025, passing peacefully at home—just as he always wished, and is now returned to his family in heaven. What a glorious reunion that must have been.

Born on December 11, 1939, in St. George, Utah, to Antone and Vilate Prince, Jim was the youngest of four, separated by sixteen years from his siblings. This age gap gave him independence, resilience, and an early talent for holding his own skills he carried throughout his life.

Jim was a man of quiet strength, quick wit, and unwavering kindness. Friends knew him as “Smiley” for his ever-present grin, and “JC” when they wanted to sound cool. He cherished friendships that spanned decades, rekindling many after returning home to St. George in retirement.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Jim found his greatest joy exploring the red rocks of Southern Utah, fishing rod or hunting rifle in hand – often with his dad or big brother Alpine, two of his lifelong heroes. His passion for these hobbies carried on throughout his life. Jokingly, later in life when he would talk about how many places he had lived, he would say that it was because he was always on the lookout for the next best place to hunt or fish.

Jim’s life changed forever in 1963 when he met Marsha Gardner on a dance floor at the Bryce Canyon lodge where they both had summer jobs. Married in 1964 in the Salt Lake City temple, they shared 61 years of partnership – a masterclass in love, teamwork, and occasionally agreeing to disagree. Together, they raised seven children as they moved across four states before settling in Idaho Falls in 1986.

As a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Jim was endlessly proud. He was also a father figure to countless students during his 30+ years as an educator. Jim had a knack for making people feel seen and valued, especially those who needed it most. His caring guidance touched the lives of many—students and colleagues alike and his time spent at Sandcreek Middle School and especially Lincoln High School were the highlights of his career.

An active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jim served in many roles, but none meant more than his mission in St. George with Marsha. A true local, Jim loved sharing the colorful stories and history of his hometown, building friendships he treasured along the way.

Jim was a friend to all, a fixer of broken things (even when replacement was easier), and a storyteller with wisdom and humor. He never needed to announce his character—you just knew the man that he was when he walked into a room.

Though his absence leaves a deep ache, Jim’s legacy lives on in every act of kindness, resilience, and family loyalty he inspired in those that knew him. Emily Dickinson summed up the impact that Jim has had when she wrote, “Unable are the loved to die, for love is immortality.”

Jim is survived by his beloved Marsha; seven children: Christine (Reece) Christensen, David (Deb) Prince, Sharon (Robert) Baird, Susan Prince, Michael (Michelle) Prince, Jennifer (Adam) Young, and Jeffrey (Whitney) Prince; 24 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Clayton, Alpine, and Virginia; and his precious grandson, Chance James Prince. His life was full, his love was wide, and his memory will always be cherished.

Funeral services will also be held in Idaho Falls, Idaho, on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with a viewing prior at 9:30 a.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel, located at 4375 East Sunnyside Road. Interment will follow in the Ammon Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Bonzo Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Please visit our website at www.metcalfmortuary.com for condolences, complete obituary, and funeral listings.