James "Jim" Lee Stout

Jim was born March 16th, 1930 in Kaskaskia, Illinois to Robert Lee and Dorothy Ruth (Lipscomb) Stout. He married his dearest Wilo “Billie” Stout on February 16, 1958, in Iuka, Alabama when they eloped while driving through a snowstorm. She preceded him in death on June 1, 2022.

Also surviving to honor his legacy is his "chosen family", Colonel Richard, Sandra Stonestreet, his only “granddaughter” Megan, Brian, and family. Jim adored all children, especially his chosen great grandchildren, Maxwell, Tesla and Genevieve, who brought an unexplainable joy to his life. The time spent alongside his beloved Billie, his closest friends, and family were most definitely the highlights of life.

Jim spent his working life as a diesel mechanic, specifically with Penske Trucks, and retired after many devoted years.

In years past, Jim would take trips to Wyoming to hunt with Basque sheepherder friends in the West and would also go on fishing adventures in Canada. He would often travel to Kentucky to visit Dickie’s property to visit and deer hunt, where he almost always tagged a deer. Over the years, he would reflect on these memorable trips and share countless stories about friendships, his grandfather, and other adventures. His favorite pastime was most definitely just sitting near the bank with a fishing pole in his hand, tying lures, hoping to catch some crappie or trout, and simply just taking in all nature had to offer.

Jim was a Master Mason and a strong advocate for Shriners Hospitals for Children. He was an avid supporter of various organizations who lovingly care for children in their times of need. Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Private family services will be held under the direction of Lake View Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens in Fairview Heights, IL.