James Allen Link

James Allen Link was born March 29, 1949, in Richmond Heights, Missouri to the union of Allen "Lee" and Susan (Gill) Link.

In 1967, James entered into the United States Navy where he served his country faithfully until his honorable discharge in 1971. He later received his master's degree in public administration/ criminal justice from Truman State University in Kirksville, MO. James began his career in law enforcement where he rose to the rank of Captain while employed by the City of Moberly Police Department. This is where he met and worked with his two life-long best friends: John Relford and Paul Jackson.

In his spare time, he enjoyed: reading, photography, firearms collecting and reloading, camping trips with his two best friends, and spending time with his family. James was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Boonville, MO.

During his time in the Navy, he took an interest in martial arts and later received his black belt in many styles. He instructed many students in the martial arts for over 40 years up until his illness.

He was united in marriage January 15, 2012, in Centralia, MO to Debra Barnett. James is survived by his wife, Debbie Link of the home; his son James Mathieu "Matt" (Donielle) Link of Madison, MO; 2 granddaughters, Ashley (Eric) Hedrick of Versailles, MO and Kelsey (Josh) Oster of Albia, IA and 1 great granddaughter, Ryleigh Roberts along with other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his brother, William "Bill" Link.

Graveside services with full military honors will be held on Friday, July 12, 2024, at 2:00 pm at Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, MO.