Dean E. James, 83, of rural Alexis, went to be with his Lord at 4:46 a.m. Friday, March 20, 2020, in the emergency room of OSF St. Mary Medical Center.
He was born November 16, 1936, in Kirksville, Missouri, the son of Milo J. and Irma V. (Watson) James. He married Dorothy E. Greeling on November 16, 1958, in Galesburg.
He is survived by his wife of over 61 years, Dorothy; three children, Becky (David) Christensen of Galesburg, Larry (Becky) James of Laramie, Wyoming, and Nancy (Rick) Devinney of Moline; seven grandchildren, Rachel (Aaron) Pelton, Sarah (Chris) Nelson, Lily James, Katy James, Luke James, Anthony Devinney, and Abby Devinney; four great grandchildren, Hannah and Andrew Pelton and Levi and Eden Nelson; three brothers, Aven James of Springfield, Ronald James of Kirksville, Missouri, and Carroll James of Grand Lake, Colorado; two sisters, Loraine (Glenn) Rigdon of Galesburg and Vivian (Tim) Gowen of Rockford; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Harry James.
Dean was a farmer for the past 48 years in the Alexis area. He also had worked at Admiral/Maytag for 40 years, retiring in 1995. Dean enjoyed farming and showing purebred sheep at county fairs with his dad, children, and grandchildren. He also was a woodworker and enjoyed his antique tractors.
Dean and Dorothy have always been involved in church. They helped establish the Village Baptist Church in Alexis, were members of the former Central Baptist Church in Monmouth, and currently was a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Galesburg. Dean was active in numerous church activities, including Sunday school teacher, Deacon, and building chairman.
Private family graveside service will be held in Warren County Hope Cemetery. Pastor Scott Wilson will officiate. A celebration of life service will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Baptist Church. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel is handling arrangements for the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
