John D. James

John D. James passed away from this world to be with his Lord and Savior on March 6, 2025, with his family and friends by his side. John was born November 14, 1939, in Grassy Township and was raised in Carterville, Illinois.

John met and married the love of his life, Brenda Harris, on June 30, 1961.

As a result of the union, they had four children, Douglas J. James, Laura K. James, Lester E. James and Matthew S. James.

John was devoted to the Christian Faith and was a member of Pittsburg Freewill Baptist Church. John was a Sunday School teacher for most of his adult life. He was a giving individual who never wanted to see anyone suffer. He donated to several charities that helped children and disadvantaged families. John combined his love for gardening and his love for people by providing fruit and vegetables to those in need and at his church.

John’s professional career was spent working in the coal mines. John worked for Old Ben Coal Company until the age of 55, where he served as a mine manager. He then began his passion for teaching Automotive Technologies at John A. Logan College. He guided generations of learners, ending his career at the age of 80.

He is survived by his brother Ernest James and his brother Ronnie’s wife, Jane James. John is also survived by his son and daughter in law Douglas and Shelly of Jacksonville, Florida, his daughter and son in law Laura and Michael O’Shea of Jacksonville, Florida, his son and daughter in law Lester and Sheila James of Carterville, Illinois, his nine grandchildren, Johnathon James, Dalton James, Aislynn O’Shea, Michael O’Shea, Donavan James, Sean O’Shea, Olivia James, Victoria James, and Zachary O’Shea. Also, his nine great children, Kinley James, Gunnar James, Lincoln James, Bayne James, Elissa James, Brayden O’Shea, Nylah James, Elliana O’Shea, Maisie O’ Shea.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, his son Matthew and his brothers Ronnie and Lee.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley-Ross. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, from 10:00-12:00 pm at Blue Funeral Home located at 1704 North Court Street, Marion, Illinois. Funeral services will begin at noon, with Pastor David Milburn officiating. Interment will follow in Maplewood Cemetery. In lieu of customary remembrance the family requests with gratitude that memorial donations be directed to the Samaritan’s Purse and sent to 801 Bamboo Road Boone, North Carolina 28607. Envelopes will also be available at the service. Visit www.bluefuneralhome.com to leave your condolences online.