Condolence: There were several experiences with Jim that changed my life for the better and I'd like to quickly share a few with you.

Along with Sharon and some friends, Jim started an annual spiritual retreat call the Yellow Rose Conference. He asked for my help at the Yellow Rose in 1985 and explained that if I worked at the conference setting up, cleaning up and making coffee, I could go at no charge. He never used the term "scholarship" because he knew my ego wouldn't allow me to accept a free ride. He knew I'd benefit from that experience and how to handle my ego because it was much like his own. That first Yellow Rose was a spiritual experience that changed my life forever and continues to enhance my spiritual development each year.

We were in a heated business meeting with 20 or so people one time. Tempers were running high and unkind things were being said by several people. After a few minutes, Jim said, "I make a motion we invite God into this meeting. Any opposed?" No one did, the atmosphere changed and the group was able to work together to resolve the issue.

Just like all of us, he was a fallible human being, a sinner and he admitted it. Many years ago, I heard him talk about his childhood understanding of God. Like me, Jim learned that God could see everything he did and knew his thoughts. Jim interpreted that to mean that God was making a list and checking it twice; that his sins were logged in a big black book for review when he died. Then, he started learning about God's grace - the unmerited or undeserving favor of God and realized that God may have that big black book, but because of following a few simple steps, the sins have been erased and written next to Jimmy Golden's name is the word "Forgiven". And, again, my life was changed forever.

Over the years, I've learned a little more about God's grace and forgiveness. I pray that each of you discovers that understanding and the peace and joy that comes with serving a loving and forgiving God.

Charlie, Kevin, Brooke, Honey, Amanda and Sharon, I pray that you are able to focus on your faith and happy memories to ease your pain and grief.

God bless you all.

Condolence: Jim, you will be missed by many and I have many memories from the over 30 years that I have known you. You got me involved with the Yellow Rose Conference and other activities that improved my life. You will remain in my thoughts forever and I will think of you often. Rest in peace, Bredo Christensen

Condolence: Jimmy Jimmy Jimmy I will see you at the big meeting in the sky one day. You will be missed and our prayers go out to family and friends

Condolence: Our friendship spanned over 30 years. We shared in growth and change. I have so many wonderful memories. Secrets. Laughter. Tears. We had one of those great relationships where we didn't see each other or even stay in contact; but I knew he was always there for me ... and he knew the same. He will always be an important part of the tapestry of my life. I love you Jim. My prayers go out for all of those who also loved him. He was one of a kind.

Condolence: My sincere condolences for your loss. I'm extremely grateful to have met and known Jim. He leaves a lasting legacy and will be greatly missed.

Condolence: Our deepest thoughts and prayers for Jim and his family. He will be missed.