James R. “Jim” Moats, 82, formerly of Yates City, died at 6:39 a.m. Friday, December 27, 2019 in Countryview Care Center in Macomb.
He was born October 1, 1937, in Spring Valley, Illinois, the son of Harlan and Elsie Josephine (Adams) Moats. He married Myrna I. Mahnesmith on April 3, 1956 in Dahinda.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 64 years, Myrna; four children, James D. Moats of Wyoming, Illinois, Mark (Angela Orin) Moats of LaVista, Nebraska, Christine (Samuel) Smith of Bushnell, and Brian (Laura Wright) Moats of Galesburg; seven grandchildren, Cassandra (Justin) Williams, C.J., Rocky, and Douglas Moats, Breanna Smith, Brooke Smith, and Adam Moats; two step grandchildren, Andrew and Ashley Smith; four great grandchildren, Jocelynn, Colt, Carson, and Gabriel; three siblings, Mary (Bill) Svetz of Streator, Illinois, Robert (Vicki) Moats of Wyoming, Illinois, and Betty Mittall of Spring Valley, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter-in-law, Peggy Moats; and three brothers and one sister
Jim worked as a truck driver for Cargill, in galvanizing at Rohn, and with aluminum at Continental Can, all in Peoria.
Jim enjoyed antique vehicles, attending antique car shows, and collecting model cars. He also collected Wizard of Oz memorabilia and was a big fan of Judy Garland. Jim enjoyed camping, fishing, yard sales, attending the scenic drive, and especially loved spending time with his family. Some of Jim’s favorite tunes were “Over the Rainbow” and “Me and Bobby McGee”, and he enjoyed listening to The Gaithers.
Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, January 2, 2019 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. Funeral will be 11 a.m. Friday, January 3, 2019 at the chapel. Pastor Katie Gallagher will officiate. Burial will follow in East Linwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
