James "Jim" Leland Innis

James Innis went through God's door of eternity on March 12th 2023 on a sunny Sunday afternoon. He was 85 years old and the softest, yet strongest man that our family could have wished for. James was born in Chicago, IL on May 30th, 1937. He joined the US Army at age 18, married the love of his life on June 28th, 1958. 2 and a half years later, he added 2 children and had a family that he protected and worked diligently for daily. Patty Innis, whom was born in 1959 and Bob Innis, whom was born in 1961. Patty Innis married Pat Smart, whom is now her prior husband, but remained a close relative and wonderful friend to James. James was a loving, caring Uncle to Caroline, Michelle, Beth, Robert Michael, and many other nieces and nephews, as well as a loving brother-in-law to Harriet.

James worked his way up the career ladder at Xerox Cheshire Company for many years. He earned many awards and achievements along the way. He served as a mentor to many and made lifelong friends on his journey through life. While raising his family in the town of Mundelein, IL, he also dedicated his time as a Volunteer Firefighter for the Mundelein Fire Department.

In 1983 and 1988 his world forever changed as he became a grandfather to Joseph Smart and Jillian (his Jilly) Smart (Hudson). Jill married Chief Warrant Officer Robert Hudson (US Army) in 2015, whom became very close to James as they shared a bond over the military, cars, and family. James then became a great grandfather to Amarah (born in 2007) and Leah (born in 2019). He was also a dedicated and inspirational grandfather to Jason Berek (born in 1977), whom is married to Karla Berek. Jason and Karla's children and grandchildren were also surrounded by the love of James.

A man who loved his family but simply was forever in love with his bride of 65 years-.Ann Carol. James and Ann retired to Deerfield Beach, where he actively became involved in their Highland Meadows neighborhood. James helped all neighbors in need, sat on the HOA board, volunteered endless hours to help and assist his friends and neighbors. The Highland Meadows community became family to him. May God guide James through eternity. When James reached Heaven, he was reunited with his parents-James Leland and Norma Arlene, along with his sweet brother, Edward Irving, his dear mother-in-law-Mae Stauffacher, and sister-in-law Maye. Many more relatives and dear friends met him at heaven's gate for a family reunion.