James Dennis Boothby

James Dennis Boothby

Fairfax

James Dennis Boothby, 81, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

Family and friends will celebrate James's life in late May, with the time and date to be announced.

James was born on May 31, 1943, in Clinton, IA, to John Daniel 'Jack' Boothby and Bernetta Hass.

He proudly served in the U.S. Navy before beginning his long career as a railroad conductor. He worked for Union Pacific and Chicago Northwestern for 48 years before retiring in 2014.

On December 4, 1977, James married Rhonda Cooper Boothby in Benton County. Over the past 47 years, they lived in Boone and Clinton, IA. In September, they moved to Fairfax to be closer to family.

James was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, working in his woodshop, and tinkering in his garage. He also enjoyed fishing and attending the Great River Threshers Day in Miles, IA. One of his favorite pastimes was gathering with friends for breakfast at Cousins Restaurant.

James is survived by his wife, Rhonda, and their children: Conrad (Katy) Boothby of Cotopaxi, CO; Nicholas (Heather) Boothby of Cedar Rapids, IA; Jacob Boothby of Goose Lake, IA; Anne Boothby of Clinton, IA; and Benjamin (Tiffany) Boothby of Toledo, OH. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and his siblings, John (Judy) Boothby of Miles, IA, and Arlee (Pat) Beckeride of West Des Moines, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

James generously donated his body to Des Moines University’s deeded body program. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Great River Threshers, 1093 390th Avenue, Miles, IA 52064.

Online condolences may be shared at www.lensingfuneral.com.