James Patrick "Jim" Evans

Born March 5, 1945 in Beardstown to Cairl and Louise (Westman) Evans, he married Shirley Beckett on December 22, 1973 in East Peoria. She survives.

Also surviving are one daughter, Lori Thompson of Pekin; two grandchildren, Hannah Evans and Hunter Thompson, both of Pekin and one sister, Mary (Jim) Phalen of Jacksonville.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one grandchild by miscarriage.

He was a veteran of the United States Army. Jim was proud to have traveled with the 25th Greater Peoria Honor Flight in October of 2022 and considered it a great privilege to present a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown soldier with three other veterans.

Jim worked at Caterpillar, Inc. for 30 years as a paint booth operator, retiring in 1996.

He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin. He was a member of Archbishop Schlarman Knights of Columbus Council 3507 in Pekin. He was a strong believer in the Right to Life.

He was devoted to his family and especially enjoyed his grandchildren and going to their sports and activities. Jim was also an avid fan of the Chicago Bears and Cubs.

His funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin. Father Michael Andrejek will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Cremation will be accorded following the funeral Mass and inurnment will then at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Prairie Haven Cemetery in Pekin. Military rites will be accorded by the United States Army and Tazewell Military Rites Team.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic School, 600 South 6th Street, Pekin, IL 61554.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com