James “Jimbo” Shockley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, son, and friend, passed away on March 6, 2026, surrounded by the love from his family.

Born with a relentless work ethic and a heart big enough for everyone around him, Jimbo spent over 40 years as a dedicated floor installation small business owner. Even after his cancer diagnosis, he continued working through radiation treatments — not out of obligation, but out of love and pride in providing for his family. No matter how long the day was, he always made time to play catch with his kids and the neighborhood kids, creating memories that will last generations.

Jimbo was a proud Navy veteran and a true St. Louis original. He loved baseball with a passion few could match and was a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan. He could talk the game with anyone, grill the perfect pork steak on his Weber, and call out “Swing, batter batter swing!” with the enthusiasm of a kid at his first ballgame. He loved nothing more than “loitering” in his backyard with his dogs and family, with a Bud Light in hand and Jack Buck and Mike Shannon announcing in the background.

He was known for his humor and his unapologetic authenticity. He never hesitated to break out his wrist-turn dance that somehow made awkward look cool, the legendary fake punch with the chestpound, and the way he’d call out “Paaaaaaattttt!” to the love of his life, Patti, also known to him as Patricia, Patsy, Patticakes, and every affectionate nickname in between. Their love was loud, playful, and unwavering even in the most difficult of times.

Jimbo found joy in the simple traditions that became family staples: horse racing at Fairmount Park, garage sales and flea markets every weekend, growing tomatoes in the backyard, trips to Grant’s Farm and the Zoo with his kids and grandkids, and movie nights featuring Angels in the Outfield, Goodfellas, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and This Christmas. He was a collector of baseball and sports memorabilia, a master of jorts, and a man who loved his dogs like his own children.

He is survived by his devoted wife Patti; his children Ryan (Jennifer), Jared, and Jamie (Andy); and his cherished grandchildren Jackson, Jaden, and Riley. He is also survived by his mother in law, Grace Lee, by his brother John (Phyllis), his nephew and caregiver Adam, and nephew and nieces Abby, Amanda, Ashley, Beverly, Johnny and Kathryn. He was preceded in death by his father Arlo, his mother Phyllis, his father-in-law Fred, his brother Larry, his sister-in-law Paula, his sister-in-law Terri, and his brother-in-law John. 

Jimbo was also a proud part of the Bisch club, started in the Shockley backyard with Papa Lake (father in law), Uncle John (brother in law), and brother Larry— a place where his presence, humor and confusing thoughts will always be remembered.

Jimbo also left a legacy of being a proud dog dad to many loyal dogs over the years including Basically, Shadow, Eddie, Jack, Lucy, Tillie, Bailey, Petey, and Freddie.

His legacy is one of love, laughter, grit, and loyalty. He taught his family how to work hard, love fiercely, and find joy in the everyday moments. His stories, his voice, his jokes, and his spirit will echo through every baseball game, every backyard grill session, and every memory shared by those who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the following Alzheimer’s foundations:

Nantz National Alzheimer Center

Hilarity for Charity (HFC)

Cure Alzheimer’s Fund

There will be a small family burial at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on Friday, March 13, 2026 followed by a celebration of life for all friends and family at a family residence in Wentzville at 4 p.m. For details on celebration of life location, please reach out to Jamie at (314) 960-0979. 

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