Jim and Marlys Loomer

As you drive through eastern South Dakota, you might catch a glimpse of Jim Loomer's face on a Montgomery’s Furniture billboard outside Alexandria. For many United Methodist Churches in the Dakotas, Jim's legacy extends far beyond a roadside sign. It represents a lasting commitment to the future of church buildings and ministries, thanks to the Jim and Marlys Loomer Endowment.

Jim and Marlys Loomer were pillars of their community, deeply rooted in faith, family, and service. As faithful members of Alexandria United Methodist Church, the Loomers shaped the life of their congregation and town. Jim, a third-generation furniture store owner, served on numerous community boards, including the Dakotas United Methodist Conference Board. Marlys, a devoted educator and homemaker, was active in church committees and the United Methodist Women. Together, they instilled a strong sense of faith and service in their sons, Todd and Kent.

After Marlys passed away in 2012 and Jim in 2022, the Loomers left a portion of their estate to the Foundation. When the land sale settled in 2024, the Dakotas Methodist Foundation received nearly $1.45 million to establish the Jim and Marlys Loomer Endowment, benefitting Builders Club.

In 1956, lay leader John Moshure had a vision of individuals across South Dakota joining together to support the building projects of United Methodist Churches throughout the state, and he formed the South Dakota Builders Club. North Dakota established their own Builders Club in 1963 to support their United Methodist Churches. In 1994, these two organizations merged to become the Builders Club of the Dakotas Annual Conference.

Modeling the power of connectional generosity, Builders Club supports the building projects of four United Methodist Churches each year. The donations of hundreds of people across the Dakotas Conference who respond to these quarterly calls help achieve the goal of assisting churches in need of financial support for building, remodeling, or expansion projects. By helping churches grow or launch new ministries, the Builders Club strengthens the future of faith communities across our region.

Through this generous gift, the Foundation now provides up to $15,000 in matching funds for each quarterly Builders Club grant. This has enabled churches like Riverview United Methodist Church in Huron, S.D., and the United Church of Garretson (S.D.) to receive grants exceeding $30,000, more than triple the previous average. Rolla (N.D.) United Methodist Church has been selected for the upcoming Builders Club call.

Jim's belief in the power of small contributions was evident in his encouragement to others to join the Builders Club. This simple yet impactful philosophy has inspired others to support their churches, demonstrating the strength of connectionalism within the Dakotas United Methodist Conference. The Loomers' legacy not only provides financial support but also offers hope and revitalization among local congregations.

“What you do is not just financial, but knowing that the Conference is supporting local churches, it builds relationships and trust,” says Rev. Julie Gregg, pastor at the United Church of Garretson.

We are deeply grateful to Jim and Marlys Loomer for their vision and generosity, ensuring that their love for ministry continues in the Dakotas United Methodist Churches for years to come.

If you are interested in becoming a Builders Club member, you can join by visiting www.dkmnmf.org/dakotas-builders-club.