Published on March 31, 2025 4:45 pm
Last Updated on March 31, 2025 4:45 pm
James S. “Jim” Jones, 74, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025 at Haven of St. Elmo surrounded by his family.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025 at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2025 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Haven of St. Elmo-Hospice Room, Visiting Angels, or donor’s choice. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here.
Jim was born on December 15, 1950, in Clay County, IL, the son of Robert W. and Betty Louise (Brown) Jones. He married his sweetheart, Paula Green, on January 29, 1972. Throughout his life, he received numerous awards in recognition of his passionate and generous heart towards others. From an early age, Jim had a deep desire to help people, which led him to attend the University of Illinois, where he earned a B.S. in Agricultural Education. This marked the beginning of his long and dedicated career in teaching and administration across multiple school districts. Known fondly as “Mr. Jones” by many, he had an undeniable passion for teaching – whether in the classroom or sharing God’s word at church. It was evident that educating and guiding others was in his blood. Beyond his professional life, Jim had a deep passion for the outdoors and working with his hands. He loved farming, hunting, and horseback riding, finding peace and purpose in the land. One of his greatest joys was raising and training Border Collies to herd sheep and cattle. He often participated in herding demonstrations to showcase their abilities. Jim found his greatest joy in his family. He deeply adored his wife, Paula, cherishing the life they built together. Whether working side by side on the farm or traveling to new places, he treasured every moment with her. Jim was also a devoted father to his three sons, always supporting them as they grew and sharing his love of farming, hunting, and horseback riding with them. He took immense pride in the men they became and the values they carried forward. Jim’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his pride and joy. They looked forward to every moment spent with “Grandpa” or “Papa” – fishing at his pond, picking berries, and riding his four-wheeler. Whether teaching them about the land, sharing stories, or simply enjoying their company, Jim made sure they always felt loved. His devotion to family, his adventurous spirit, and his kind heart will live on in the memories of those who loved him.
Jim is survived by his wife of 53 years, Paula Jones of Effingham; sons, Ryan (Janet) Jones, Justin (Michelle) Jones, and Jared (Laura) Jones; grandchildren, Levi (Hannah), Larisa, Rusty, Dillon (Reneé) Ruholl, Wyatt, Ethan, Emma, Lula, and Miri; great-grandchildren, Lenora and Natalie Ruholl, and Baby Jones due in April; and siblings, Connie (Jim) Huddleston, Carol Ann (Earl) Crothers, Robert (Jill) Jones, and Julie (Kevin) Moore.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and parents-in-law, Howard Keith and Lorna Mae Green.