James V. Despain, Sr. (Little Jim)

James V. DeSpain, Sr., age 86, passed away on Friday, August 18, 2017 at Memorial Medical Center.

James was born on September 15, 1930 to James and Rose DeSpain.

James worked all over Illinois as a lineman.  He also worked for various companies as a truck driver and retired from Sasco Auto Parts.

James enjoyed playing Bingo and he loved to go bowling.

James is survived by three daughters, Dee Nunn and Cherie (Pat, Sr.) O’Neill, both of Springfield, Illinois, and Jerrie (John) Eich of New Tazwell, Tennessee; six sons, Jack DeSpain of Yukon, Oklahoma, Jeff (Shelly) DeSpain of Oklahoma, Jimmi DeSpain, Jr. and Kenneth DeSpain of Dixon, Illinois, Brandon (Noelle) DeSpain of Springfield, Illinois and Zachary DeSpain of Peoria, Illinois

Several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two sons, James and David; a daughter, Vickie; three brothers; and four sisters.

Graveside services will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Memorial Medical Center-ICU Unit for the wonderful care they gave to our Dad.

Also thank you to Mott & Henning Funeral Home for the extra time they took with our family and the care they gave to our Dad.