James W. Padgett, a lifelong resident of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home on September 26, 2026, surrounded by the place and community he called home throughout his life.

James was born on December 6, 1938, to James Levi Padgett and Eunice Padgett Johnson. He attended Manhattan High School, where he excelled in athletics and earned a baseball scholarship.At the age of 14, James began learning the brick masonry trade, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He mastered his profession and became a highly respected brick mason throughout Manhattan and the surrounding area. His craftsmanship can be seen throughout Manhattan and at Kansas State University. Every stone and every brick he laid became part of the legacy he left behind—a lasting mark on the community he loved.

James married Myrna Kay McIntyre on November 9, 1957. Together, they built a family and shared many years of life and memories.

James was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Myrna Kay; his daughter, Jamie Ostrom; his brothers, Norman, David, and Lawrence; and his sisters, Violin, Nadine, Laura, and April.

He is survived by his daughters, Debra Ratzlaff (Tracy) and Cynthia McDonald; his grandchildren, Todd James, James Tracy, Jacqueline Deann, Stuart Anthony, and Grace Nichole; and his great-grandchildren, Lilah, Nichole, Lucas, Lynlee, Karter, and Topanga.

James will be remembered not only for his remarkable craftsmanship, but for the lasting impression he made on the people and community around him. His work will continue to stand as a testament to a life dedicated to family, hard work, and pride in his craft. His legacy lives on in the many structures he helped build, in the memories of those who knew and loved him, and in the family he leaves behind.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of James’s life will be held on October 10, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at The Blue Room at R.C. McGraw’s.

All who knew Jimmy are welcome to join his family in celebrating his life, remembering his stories, and honoring our dad.

His hands built more than brick and stone, they built a legacy that will stand for generations.