James Gonzales Obituary

James "Poppys" Gonzales, 49, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home on July 8, 2025. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Highland Park Funeral Home, followed immediately by burial at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.
Born on November 3, 1975, in Kansas City, Poppys was a proud lifelong resident of the area. He was a devoted partner, son, brother, uncle, grandson, cousin and stepfather. Known for his warm heart and joyful spirit, he made lasting connections everywhere he went.
Poppys worked as an Operations Supervisor in the Power & Light District, where he turned coworkers into lifelong friends. He had a passion for fishing, watching movies, and collecting action figures-especially anything Star Wars. He cherished time spent with his loving partner, family, friends, and his beloved dog, Chucho. A true fan of his hometown, he faithfully cheered on the Chiefs, Royals, and KU Jayhawks.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Virginia Mullen, Rudolph Alvarez, Josefina Juarez, and Francisco Juarez; his uncle, Philip Alvarez; and his aunts and uncles Sarah Juarez, Daniel Juarez, and Jose Juarez.
Poppys is survived by his loving partner, Kimberly Herr; his mother, Amanda Juarez; his fathers, Mark Gonzales and Guadalupe Juarez; his sisters, Angelina Juarez, Adrienne Juarez (Alvin Murray), and Ashley Allred (Steven Brill); and his cherished niece and nephews: Nasadiya Salazar, Brandon Ahart Jr., D'Anthony Williams, Christopher Murray, and Steven Brill Jr.
He was also a proud and loving stepfather to four beautiful young women: Raquel Gallegos, Maria Anderson, Alicia Gallegos, and Jannessa Elkins.
Poppys brought light and laughter to everyone he met. His positive spirit, big heart, and infectious smile will be remembered and missed by all who knew him.
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