James Alton Spruell

James Alton Spruell, “Jim”, passed away peacefully on May 8th, 2026.

Jim was born in Texas on January 12, 1953.

Jim spent his youth in West Texas as an avid swimmer, both competing and working as a lifeguard. Outside of swimming, he spent his life in the constant pursuit of knowledge. He graduated from high school at the age of 16, then moved to Fort Worth to earn his first degree from Texas Christian University. He later earned his Master’s Degree and his PhD from University of Oklahoma.

Jim completed basic training with the United States Marine Corps, but ultimately found that his passion for academics and education was where he was meant to be. He honorably left the Marines and dedicated his career to higher education as a professor. Throughout the years, he taught at University of Central Missouri and Rockhurst University.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie and May Spruell.

He leaves behind his siblings, John (Judy) Spruell, Lanita (Barney) Cruz, Sharan Spruell, and Diana (Kris) Hinckley; his children, Jennifer (Brad), John Spruell, Amy (Bill) King, Peter (Alicia) Spruell, and David (Ali) Spruell; seventeen grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Jim raised his children in Kansas and Missouri before later moving to Utah after they were grown. He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and held deeply to his faith throughout his life.

In the final years of his life, Jim returned to Kansas to be closer to his family and spend treasured time with his grandchildren. He was a loving and dedicated grandfather whose Uno skills were truly unmatched.

He will be remembered for his intelligence, curiosity, faith, dedication to education, and deep love for his family.