James D. Pettit, 74 of Monmouth, IL passed away at 11:40 p.m., Thursday, May 5, 2022 at his home.
Jim was born November 29, 1947 the son of Virgil and Mary (Lindsey) Dosset in Galesburg, IL. After Virgil’s death, he was adopted and raised by his father James Pettit.
He graduated from Corpus Christi High School in 1965. Shortly after his 18th birthday he began working at Admiral, later known as Maytag, in Galesburg for 34 years before retiring in 1999.
Jim married Dianne Maritz in Monmouth, IL on September 26, 1970 and she passed away on July 8, 2021
Jim enjoyed spending his time with his family and pets, whether it was antiquing, traveling to flea markets, fishing, or taking the grandkids on motorcycle rides. He was involved in Monmouth Jaycees for many years, and enjoyed doing yard work and caring for his flowers. He was known for his incredible collection of holiday lights and decor, and enjoyed watching as people stopped to look at his display as they drove by. Jim was quite the handyman, and kept himself busy in retirement by working at Super Wash for many years.
Survivors include his children, Brian (Melissa) Pettit, daughters Missy (Denny) Noel and Angie (John) Moore, and bonus son Joel (Christina) Carlston. He was called Papa by many; Ashton (Mallory) Hamby, Samantha (Jeremiah) Bresnahan, Chelsea (Dustin) Logsdon, Nikki (Wesley) Bellinger, Kaley (Chad) Eversgerd, Damon Moore, Jakob Pettit, Hayley Moore, Molly Pettit, and Chelsea Goad; and Big Papa to Killian Barker, Myles & Maclan Bresnahan, Owen & Ensley Logsdon, Lane & Lenix Bellinger, Cruz, Aria & Rio Eversgerd, and Darrius Goad. Also surviving are his siblings Carol Smith, Joe (Jacke) Pettit, Kathy (Reuel) Owen all of Galesburg, IL and Gloria (Jed) Zak of Carriere, MS; several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and his brother, Bob Pettit.
A Celebration of Life will be Friday, May 13, 2022 from 5:00-7:00 pm at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL. Cremation has been accorded. Memorials may be given to Western Illinois Animal Rescue (WIAR). For more information or to leave an online condolence please visit, www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com.
