James LeRoy “Jim” Boyd, 90, of Ballwin died Nov. 26, 2023, in St. Louis. Mr. Boyd served as a captain in the U.S. Air Force for nine years in the 51st Bombardment Squadron during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He also served in the Missouri National Air Guard for 20 years. He worked at the Defense Mapping Aeronautical Center (DMAC), where he mapped the far side of the moon as a cartographer. He also worked at the United Services Life Insurance Company (USLICO) as well as several other places. He graduated from Decatur High School and received a bachelor of science degree in military science from the University of Nebraska, a master of science in cartography from St. Louis University and a master of art from Webster University. He was a member of Kirk of the Hills Presbyterian Church, Kiwanis, Gideons International, Eagle Scout Association, Good Sam’s Camping Club, Color Guard of Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), Sons and Daughters of the Pilgrims, Military Order of World Wars, Military Order of Retired and Active Duty, Missouri Air National Guard (MOANG) and several other organizations. He cherished time spent with his family, flying airplanes, camping, working with the youth, singing in the choir, spelunking and creating improvements to his garden layout for his G-gauge model railroad trains. Born March 1, 1933, in Atlanta, Ga., he was the son of the late Helen Pearl Meador Boyd and James LeRoy Boyd Sr.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years: Charlotte E. Boyd; a son: William LeRoy (Kristy) Boyd; two daughters: C. Marie (Mark) Boyd Braton and Elizabeth “Beth” (John) Boyd Wolf; and four grandchildren: Matthew Boyd, David Braton, Mindy and Eli Wolf.
He was preceded in death by a brother: Benjamin Meador Boyd; his paternal grandparents: Benjamin Hartwell Boyd and Maude Townsend Boyd; and his maternal grandparents: Albert Delaware Meador and Ida May Bush Meador.
Visitation is scheduled from 5-7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 4 at Schrader Funeral Home, Wedgwood Room, 14960 Manchester Road, in Ballwin. Visitation will continue at 9:30 a.m. until funeral services at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5, at Kirk of the Hills Presbyterian Church, 12928 Ladue Road, officiated by the Rev. Dr. Mike Kennison. A graveside service will take place in The National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks. Memorials may be made to Kirk of the Hills Presbyterian Church Mission Fund. Arrangements are under the direction of Schrader Funeral Home.