James “Jim” Kimball, age 71, of Miles City, Montana, passed away on January 1, 2026.
Jim was born on October 3, 1954, to Edward and Mary Lou Kimball. He grew up in Miles City and attended Sacred Heart High School. After graduating, Jim moved to Alaska, where he spent several years before returning to eastern Montana. He later lived in Bozeman, Montana, where he met Kristy Roberts in Big Sky. The two were married and began building their family together.
During this time, Jim became a father to Kristy’s daughter, Ciesan, and welcomed their daughter, Hanna, who was born while the family lived in Bozeman. Eventually, the family returned to Miles City, where Jim and Kristy raised their girls.
Jim worked in a variety of fields throughout his life. Early on, he worked briefly as a chef in Big Sky, a role that reflected his deep love of cooking. He enjoyed sharing that passion with close friends, reading cookbooks, and spending time exploring new recipes together. After returning to Miles City, Jim worked in real estate alongside his father and siblings. In later years, he found his true calling in farming. Though the work was demanding, Jim loved the life it provided. Being on the land brought him peace, and he rarely complained about the challenges that came with it.
Family was always central to Jim’s life. In recent years, he lived near his brother Dale and helped care for him, offering daily support, companionship, and guidance. Jim was known for his quiet strength and for consistently showing up for the people he loved.
Jim is survived by his daughters, Ciesan Cable of Laurel, Montana, and Hanna (Chase) Redfield of Opheim, Montana; and his grandchildren, Damian Cable, Kaiden Morrow, Howard, Nels, and Rebie Redfield. He is also survived by his siblings: John (Bobbin) Kimball of Helena, Montana; Richard (Helen) Kimball of Anchorage, Alaska; Colette (Dave) Harris of Miles City, Montana; Dale Kimball of Miles City, Montana; and Scott (Angeline) Kimball of Highlands Ranch, Colorado.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mary Louise Kimball, and his brother, Jerry Kimball.
Jim loved his family, the land, and the simple, honest work of a life well lived. He will be deeply missed.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Son’s Funeral Home in Miles City, MT. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow at the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City. Should friends desire memorial can be made to the Miles City food bank; St. Vincent de Paul Store or to Stevenson & Son’s Funeral home to help the family with a headstone.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Friday January 16, 2026
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday January 16, 2026
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Friday January 16, 2026
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday January 16, 2026
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
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Diane Welbes says
Kimball family–so sorry to hear this. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Teri Muggli says
Im sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. I couldn’t tell you all of the good times we’ve shared . Rest in peace my 🧡 friend
Tracy Bertrand says
RIP Jimmy. Always a great friend to our family, especially brother Mike. Your big heart and sense of humor will never be forgotten. The entire Kimball family is in our thoughts and prayers
Julie K says
I’m very sorry to hear about Jimmy.
My condolences to his family.
I hope he finds lots of chives and leeks in heaven. ❤️
James Arneson says
I am sorry forbyour loss, may God comfort you with the best of memories now and always. I will miss seeing you out in the fields plowing this spring – R.I.P Jim
Jodie Burnett-Rhodes says
Oh Jimmy, this just broke my heart. You have always been a good friend of mine. When I would go home we always met him for a drink and to catch up on all the tea! I keep thinking you’re up there with Bert.. laughing and carrying on as you always have. Give Mikey a hug from me… know that I love you dearly and may your loved ones find comfort from knowing you’re in the hands of our Lord! May they keep their memories close. RIP my dear friend you will be missed!
MARTHA Crandall says
My sympathy
Vikki Bradley says
So sorry to see this. I really enjoyed visiting with him when I would see him. Your family was always a part of our family. RIP Jimmy.