Jim “Smiley” Bybee
May 10, 1947 - January 23, 2016
"Honey, I’m Home”
Jimmy Lee Bybee, 68 – retired realtor, devoted husband, doting father and grandfather, beloved brother and uncle – passed away on January 23, 2016, from lung cancer.
He lived life for his family and the friendships he cherished. He was passionate for golf, the Utah Jazz, cooking, fishing, and gardening. Jim was an always-smiling entrepreneur, passionate about selling real estate and helping people obtain their dream homes, and he was a faithful member of the LDS Church. He seemed immortal, larger than life, and infectiously good-natured.
Jim was born to Ross Leslie Bybee and Ellathine Taylor Bybee onMay 10, 1947, in Twin Falls, Idaho.
Shortly after graduating from Valley High School, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving in Vietnam 1966 -1969. After serving honorably in the service, he moved to Salt Lake and worked at his brother-in- law’s Chevron Service Station, where he met his future wife, Connie Jean Oberhansly, and married on July 27, 1971. Their marriage was solemnized 43 years later in the Salt Lake Temple on October 19, 2013. Their love was blessed by the arrival of two amazing children and four precious grandchildren. Jim worked at G. E. Company as a quality control inspector for 14 years. Then on brilliant impulse, he followed his dream and switched careers to become a licensed Realtor. He pursued a successful career in Real Estate for 24 years with Coldwell Banker, Wardley Better Homes, and the Sperry Group. During his retirement years, he worked for AirServ as a cargo agent for 7 years.
Survived by his wife, Connie; sisters Lois Bybee Maddy, Maxine Bybee Sharich, and brother Tom Bybee. Children: son Jeff Bybee (Crystal) and daughter Jennifer Bybee Rollins (Jason). Grandchildren: Paige and Chase Rollins and Jonah and Malia Bybee. Many beloved nieces and nephews and extended family members.
Preceded in death by Brother Ross “Bobe” Jr., and his parents.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 30th at 11 a.m. at the Cottonwood Heights 4th Ward Chapel, 2522 East 6710 South with a viewing at 10 a.m. prior to the funeral. Family and friends may also call at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East on Thursday evening 6– 8 p.m. Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
The Bybee family expresses heartfelt thanks to the Huntsman Cancer Institute,Dr. Akerly, Julie, and the nurses who provided tender, loving care for Jim. Appreciation is also expressed to friends for the outpouring of love and kindness. Though the pain is all but overwhelming, his family is filled with faith and hope for that day when they’ll embrace again in joy as an eternal family!
In Loving Memory
I had the privilege of working with Jim for several years at Airserv. He truly was "Smiley." I have never known a kinder individual. Connie and family, I am sorry for your loss. Your loss is our loss also. We miss him here at Airserv.
Fred Dunn
Salt Lake City, Ut
I am so sorry to hear the loss. Jim was a good example to me as how a father can and should be. I always was able to feel life can be fun and safe with him around while growing up with Jenni. Lots of love to the family.
Denise Sharp
SLC, uT
My deepest condolences go to the Bybee family. May you find comfort in your loving memories of him and God's promise that we will see our loved ones again. (John 5:28,29)
Letita Lovette
nan, nan
Jen and Jason, sorry for your loss. May you find peace and comfort in all the fond memories. You two and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you at this difficult time.
Tom and Nancy Mayhew
Taylorsville, Ut
Jim, old buddy, sure going to miss your big smile and always happy disposition. We had a lot of fun times together on various golf courses.
Wayne Maden
Bluffdale, Ut
Jim was one of the greats, helped me get into my first home as well as spent many great golfing trips together. his smile and fun personality will be missed. sing away in that course in the sky buddy.
David Winn
Salt Lake City, Ut
Dear Jim it was great working with you at GE you were a good friend. To your family I am sorry for you loss he was a good man. Greg Van Wagenen
Greg van Wagenen
Draper, Ut
I am very sorry for your loss, Connie and Family. I only met Jim once when he helped us at a CAST for Kids event. But I remember how generous and kind he was. And, yes, his constant smile was infectious! I hope you can find comfort in your memories of Jim now and in the coming months and years. Please take care and know you are in my thoughts.
Valerie Heath-Harrison
Kearns, UT
Jim will be dearly missed. He had the ability to brighten everyone's day that he interacted with. I never heard him complain for all the years I worked with him. Condolences to the Bybee family. Until we meet again.
Aaron Cook
Columbus, MS
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of our good friend Jim. I worked with Jim for many years at Wardley Better Home and Gardens. He was just the nicest and most honest man you could ever met. He was always so friendly to everyone and always made everyone feel welcome. He was a wonderful real estate agent. I was so glad to have him as an example of how a good real estate agent should be. Condolences to his family that he loved so much.
Linda Leavitt
Murray, Ut