Jim Emery Obituary

Jimmie "Jim" Emery, 78, of Carterville, passed away on Friday, July 4, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in Carbondale, surrounded by family.

He was born the youngest of 15 children to Earl Sr. and Ruby (Crain) Emery on July 31, 1946. Jim married Phyllis A. Jones on December 23, 1965, in Marion.

Survivors include his devoted wife of 59 ½ years, Phyllis Emery; son and daughter-in-law, James Robert (Tina) Emery; daughter and son-in-law, LaDonna (Jimmy) Chandler; grandchildren, Nicole A. (Travis) Morgan, Caleb W. Heern, Tiffani R. Emery (Jonathan Sanford), and Hunter J. Emery; great-grandchildren, Rylee N. Morgan, Gunner S. Morgan, and Addyson J. Morgan; brother and sister-in-law, Tony (Edith) Emery; and sister, Sue Jones.

He was preceded in death by his parents, several brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Jim and Phyllis were active in several local churches over the years, eventually making their home at Whiteash Church on the Hill, where Rev. Ed Martin became a cherished mentor and friend. After Rev. Martin's passing, they began attending Grange Hall Free Will Baptist Church. Jim faithfully sat in the same spot every Sunday - aisle seat, second row - and proudly called it "his seat."

Jim began his working life at age 16 at Reynold's Market in Carterville, where he worked from 1962 to 1970. There, he carried groceries, stocked shelves, and worked in both the produce and meat departments. He later became a butcher at J.C. Penney's Grocery Store in Carbondale's University Mall, and eventually finished his career at Big John's in Eldorado and West Frankfort.

After 30 years in the food industry, Jim launched Neat Trim Lawn Service in 1992. For 25 years, he provided weekly lawn care to more than 75 customers, many of whom became close friends. Even after retiring in 2017, some still called to ask if he could come by "just one more time." Over the years, Jim employed many local workers, including Toddy Hendricks and Greg Williams, his nephew Greg Emery, his grandson Caleb, and his son Jimmy.

Jim loved sharing his joy with others. After building a barn on East Illinois Avenue, he and Phyllis hosted lively barn dances open to all - filled with laughter, card games, and Friday night music. It became a cherished gathering place for friends and family.

A lifelong car enthusiast, Jim especially loved his red and white 1956 Ford Crown Victoria. He also proudly owned a 1967 Chevelle, a favorite of his daughter.

Jim will be remembered for his deep love for his family, his strong work ethic, his welcoming spirit, and the many friendships he built throughout his life.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with Rev. Kevin McNeely officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Monday Meals c/o Carterville City Hall, or Camp Jerico, Grange Hall Freewill Baptist Church.

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