James Richard Stout Sr.

He was born May 10, 1957 in Cairo, IL to Ray and Rose (Karcher) Stout. He graduated from Camelot High School in Cairo and received both Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Murray State University in Murray, KY where he was an active member of Sigma Pi Fraternity.

He married Marsha Pitman in 1992 and she survives. They were blessed with two sons, Christian and Burke of Springfield.

Jim worked for the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office for 30 years retiring in 2012. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinal’s fan. He was a regular blood donor before his illness and truly believed in its importance. He loved fishing, always had an outdoor fish and plant pond and could be found bringing home turtles, frogs, birds and other animals for “the boys”. He was a great gardener and there wasn’t anything that he couldn’t build or fix with his hands. He was a member of Douglas Avenue United Methodist Church, serving on many committees and helping to start the Douglas Men’s Breakfast group. He went on several Youth Mission Trips to guide the youth and help to build or repair needs in other communities. He had a wonderful smile and an infectious laugh that will be remembered and treasured by those who loved him.

He is also survived by his son James Richard (Rick), Jr. of Springfield, MO, and two grandchildren; his brother Mike (Vickie) of Springfield, sisters Eleanor (Bob) Cocke of Palm Bay, FL and Linda (Jackie) Logsdon of Calvert City, KY; many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Edward.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bisch Funeral Home West, Springfield. Services will be held at Douglas Avenue United Methodist Church at 2 pm on Saturday, January 20th, Rev. Julia Melgreen officiating.

Visitation will be held at the church from 4 to 7 pm on Friday, January 19th and again one hour prior to the service Saturday.

Memorials can be made to Douglas Avenue United Methodist Church Youth Mission Fund.

Please visit the online obituary at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.