James Gilmore "Jim" Sliney Jr.

James Sliney ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Iowa Cremation - Cedar Rapids on Mar. 16, 2026.James "Jim" Gilmore Sliney Jr. passed away Friday, March 6th, 2026, in Cedar Rapids, IA. A memorial service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church in Cedar Rapids on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 2:00 PM.Jim was born in Chicago, IL on January 16th, 1940, to James Sliney Sr. and Lauretta (Bremner) Sliney. The family moved often during Jim's childhood, following James Sr.'s career in the Navy. They were eventually based in Southern California, where Jim graduated high school.He stayed in the area and continued his education at the University of Southern California. He graduated with a PhD in Electrical Engineering and Physics, allowing him to enter a career in aerospace engineering. He worked at Rocketdyne in Canoga Park in the '80s, where he helped patent LED screens used in space shuttles. Later, he moved to Cedar Rapids to start at Rockwell Collins.During his time in California, Jim enjoyed taking his daughters, Katherine and Rachel, shore fishing on the beach, or ice skating at the local skating rink. One of passions was astronomy, and Jim included his daughters on outings to stargaze, showing them constellations and planets. On one such occasion, they were able to see Haley's Comet together. Jim had a great sense of humor and always knew how to make the girls laugh.In Cedar Rapids, Jim met Sharon Beckley. The two were married on November 21st ,1998, and built a life together in Robins, IA. Located near the Cedar Valley Nature Trail, the two enjoyed walking the trail and cross-country skiing in the winter. They traveled together often; cruises being their adventure of choice on multiple occasions.Faith was important to Jim. In his earlier life, he had studied to be a Jesuit priest but was not ordained. He was a member of St. Paschal Baylon Catholic Church in Thousand Oaks, CA for some time. Once in Cedar Rapids, Jim found community at Christ Episcopal Church and was an active member there.Jim is proceeded in death by his parents, James and Lauretta Sliney.He is survived by his wife, Sharon Beckley-Sliney, daughters, Katherine (Ryan) Gregory, and Rachel (Thomas) Robatto; his stepchildren, Tamera Beckley, Kevin (Philippe) Skeesick, and Jeremy Skeesick; his granddaughter, Amber (Tyler) Mougin; and great-granddaughter, Reese Mougin.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.