James Kenneth Lloyd

James Kenneth Lloyd, age 82, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026, in Spokane, Washington.

Born on May 18, 1944, in Spokane, Washington, Jim spent his life building meaningful connections through family, friendship, service, and hard work.

Jim proudly served in the United States Navy from 1962 to 1965. During his service, he was a ship swimmer and had the opportunity to see the world, an experience he carried with pride throughout his life.

Jim worked in lumber sales and as a cement finisher, helping build the foundations of many buildings throughout Spokane. He was a proud member of the Cement Masons Union.

He was known for his humor, craftsmanship, willingness to help others, and, of course, his storytelling. He genuinely enjoyed meeting new people, hearing their stories, and finding common ground with everyone he encountered.

A gifted woodworker, lifelong learner, history enthusiast, and lover of technology, Jim was incredibly creative and remarkably wise. Family and friends affectionately called him the “Walking Google” because of his seemingly endless knowledge and curiosity. Whether the topic was history, technology, home projects, or life itself, people knew they could turn to Jim for answers, guidance, and perspective.

Jim had a gift for making people feel seen. Whether talking with a lifelong friend or someone he had just met, he could strike up a conversation and leave them feeling valued and at ease. He listened attentively, shared openly of himself, and took a genuine interest in others, always believing there was something to learn from every person he met. It was difficult to meet Jim and not like him.

One of Jim’s greatest gifts was his ability to slow down and appreciate life. He was not one to hurry or rush through life and always chose to take the “scenic route.”

He taught those around him many things: tradition, family values, kindness toward those less fortunate, appreciation for the little things, and never taking a moment for granted.

Everyone who knew Jim knew that he was most proud of being a father. Rarely did a conversation go by without mention of his children and the pride he felt in their accomplishments, and later, their children—his beloved grandchildren.

Jim and his wife, Kathy Lloyd, shared 49 years of friendship, love, and support. Together they enjoyed their home, antiquing, visiting museums, taking drives, sharing common interests, and building a life filled with shared values, mutual respect, and experiences.

Jim endured a courageous battle with breast cancer. Throughout his journey, he inspired others and helped raise awareness that “men can get breast cancer too.” He faced his illness with strength, grace, and determination while continuing to care deeply about those around him.

Above all, Jim was extraordinarily generous. He would truly give the shirt off his back to help someone in need. His kindness, wisdom, patience, and unwavering support touched countless lives. He was our hero and is truly irreplaceable.

He is survived by Kathy Lloyd; his brother, Steven Lloyd (Sally); his children, Chad Lloyd (Heather) and Amy Lloyd; his stepdaughter, Renee Black; his grandchildren, Amanda Lloyd, Mackenzie Paltram, Hallie Leonhardy, and Joshua James Lloyd; and his great-granddaughter, Ryann James Bowman, both proudly carrying forward his namesake.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many doctors, nurses, caregivers, family members, and friends who supported Jim throughout his journey. Their compassion and kindness brought comfort not only to Jim, but also to those who loved him.


A private burial with immediate family will be held at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery on June 26, 2026.
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 28, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at:
Kalispel Golf and Country Club
2010 W. Waikiki Road
Spokane, WA 99218

We find comfort in knowing Jim is reunited with his parents, Ken and Evelyn Lloyd, whose love, guidance, and values helped shape the man he became, as well as his grandparents, dear friends and loved ones who went before him. We have no doubt the Lloyd family is making its mark in heaven now that Jim is home.

Though he is no longer physically here, his generosity, wisdom, humor, stories, and love live on in the family he deeply cherished, the people who were lucky to know him, and the countless memories he leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jim’s memory to Male Breast Cancer Happens, an organization dedicated to raising awareness and supporting men affected by breast cancer. Male Breast Cancer Happens Donation Page