James H Pryor

He was born in St. Louis, MO., February 17, 1922 the son of Lee Roy and Lily E. Edmed Pryor. Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army with the 555 Battalion AAA from 1942-1946. He earned 1 Service Stripe, 2 Overseas Service Bars, European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with 2 Bronze Battle Stars, American Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.

Jim married Lois Irene “Irene” Varns in St. Louis, January 2, 1942, and she survives.

He is also survived by his children, Judy L. (husband Kirby) Laughlin of Casper, WY, Jay L. (wife Lerona) Pryor of Waterloo, IL, Lee F. “Frank” (companion Pat LaPorte) Pryor and Dennis W. “Denny” (wife Mary) Pryor both of Springfield. Jim has 5 grandchildren; Tiffany (husband Mike) Morgan of Lakewood, Co., Jami Pryor, of Litchfield, IL Justin (wife Maggie) Pryor, of Beatrice, NE, Nicole (husband Michael) Cumby and James Robert Pryor, both of Springfield. 2 great grandchildren, Alexis Pryor and Michael Cumby, with another arrival in May. There are several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Ernest, a sister Julia Potter, and a grandson, Timothy Pryor.

Upon returning from his military service, Jim worked at Allis-Chalmers Manufacturing in Springfield where he was a foreman in the gear production line. He left there to become the owner and operator of Pryor Trucking Co. from 1959-1998. He worked many years moving furniture and freight across the nation. He enjoyed telling stories of his travels, experiences, and occasionally offering advice to friends, family and neighbors. After coming off the road, his retirement didn’t last long. His energy and work ethic led him to serve as a security officer for Initial Security and later as a parts delivery driver for Central Illinois Truck Co.

He was a member of the American Legion Post #32, and Central Lodge #71 AF&AM. He was also a member of Springfield Seventh Day Adventist Church.

Following Jim’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded by the Bisch Crematory. A private family memorial service will held at a later date with inurnment in Camp Butler National Cemetery, with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, those that wish may direct memorial contributions to the Springfield Seventh Day Adventist Church 3300 W. Jefferson Springfield, IL 62707

Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bisch and Son Funeral Home 505 E. Allen, Springfield, IL 62703 217-544-5424