James O. “Jim” Eckelberry, 72, of rural Mt. Vernon, died at 6:38 P.M. Monday September 10, 2018 at his home. Jim was born December 18, 1945 at Rinard, Illinois the son of Jospeh and Ozella “Plumbley” Eckelberry. On October 11, 1968 in Cisne, Illinois he married Francis Thompson, and she survives.
In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by 3 sons: Dave Eckelberry of Woodlawn, Illinois; Joe Eckelberry and wife Paula of Woodlawn and Marty Eckelberry and wife Missy of Mt. Vernon; 5 grandchildren: Megan Eckelberry; Allyson Eckelberry; Tyler Eckelberry; Cody Eckelberry and Savanna Davenport; 2 sisters: Phyliss Vail of Flora; RhesaEckelberry of Flora; 1 brother: Joe Eckelberry of Flora; father-in-law: Delbert Thompson. Jim is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; mother-in-law Bettyjane Thompson; 3 sisters: Melba Rowden, Marjorie Kirkman, Thelma Furlow; 4 brothers: Eddie Eckelberry, Clifford Eckelberry, Bill Eckelberry and Martin Eckelberry.
Jim was an active member of Old Union Missionary Baptist Church in Mt. Vernon. He had served as a volunteer firefighter with both the Cisne and Dix Fire Departments. He enjoyed singing with the gospel group Men of the King. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed spending time with the Alabama boys. He also enjoyed selling watermelon and all kinds of produce. He loved and enjoyed spending time with his family, but his grandchildren were the apple of his eye.
Funeral services will be held Friday, September 14, 2018 at 1:00 P.M. at Hughey Funeral Home in Mt. Vernon, with Rev. Ralph Wilton officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home Thursday September 13th from 5-8 P.M. Memorial contributions in Jim’s memory can be made to the Old Union Missionary Baptist Church building fund and will be received at the funeral home at any time.
Hughey Funeral Home in Mt. Vernon is in charge of arrangements, where friends may leave condolences at www.hugheyfuneralhome.com.