James “Jim” Lynn Rider Obituary, Cause of Death – Idaho Veteran and Beloved Family Man Dies at 79
James “Jim” Lynn Rider, a longtime Idaho resident, Vietnam veteran and beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away on August 26, 2026, at the age of 79. He died at Logan Regional Hospital surrounded by family and loved ones following health complications.
Jim was born on April 8, 1947, in St. George, Utah, to Delmer and Georgia Rider. He was the oldest of three children and was affectionately called “Jimmy” by his younger sisters, Eunice and Delna.
As a child, Jim was active and adventurous. He loved spending time outdoors, playing baseball and being with his cousins. His curiosity also led him to bring home various animals, including snakes, lizards, turtles and hamsters. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He attended school in Henderson, Nevada, before graduating from Dixie High School in St. George.
Military Service and Family Life
After high school, Jim was drafted into the U.S. Army and served two tours in Vietnam as an X-ray technician and medic. His military experiences had a lasting impact on his life, and he struggled with PTSD after returning home.
Jim first married Cathy Powell, and they had two sons, Ivan and Erik. Following their divorce, he married Emma Jean Bingham on June 11, 1977, in the Provo LDS Temple. Their marriage was sealed for time and all eternity, and together they raised seven children.
Jim’s family was one of the most important parts of his life. He worked hard to provide for his loved ones and took great pride in his children, grandchildren and the life they built together.
A Life of Adventure and Hard Work
Throughout his life, Jim worked in a wide variety of occupations. His jobs included lifeguard, river guide, truck driver, mechanic and hard-rock miner. He also traveled to Alaska, where he helped with cleanup efforts following the Valdez oil spill.
Jim pursued an education in geology and also studied drafting. His adventurous spirit led him to live in different parts of the western United States while pursuing work and new experiences.
He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and horseback riding. He was also an accomplished gardener who took pride in his garden and fruit trees.
Woodworking was another passion, and he enjoyed spending time in his shop. Jim was an avid reader who went through hundreds of books during his lifetime. His family also remembered his sharp mind and his confidence in his knowledge of virtually any subject.
Above all, Jim loved his family deeply and spent his life doing his best to provide a good life for those he loved.
James “Jim” Lynn Rider Cause of Death
James “Jim” Lynn Rider died on August 26, 2026, at Logan Regional Hospital following health complications. He passed away surrounded by family and loved ones at the age of 79.
Family and Funeral Arrangements
Jim is survived by his wife, Emma Jean; his sister, Eunice; and his children, Ivan, Erik, Jennifer, Kristi, Travis, Pam, Becky, Emmalee and Catherine. He also leaves behind 25 grandchildren.
Funeral services are scheduled for Monday, August 31, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the Clifton 2nd Ward Chapel, 170 W. 100 N., Clifton, Idaho 83228.
A viewing will be held Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Webb Funeral Home, 1005 S. 800 E., Preston, Idaho. Another viewing will take place Monday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the church before the funeral service.
Interment will follow at the Clifton Idaho Cemetery, where military honors will be conducted.
James “Jim” Lynn Rider leaves behind a lifetime of service, adventure, hard work and devotion to his family. His memory will continue through his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family and the many people whose lives he touched.
May Jim rest peacefully.
Forever remembered. Never forgotten.