James E. Newby's Obituary
CHARLESTON, IL - James E. Newby, age 83 of Charleston, passed away on Monday, February 3, 2014 while at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center and in the loving presence of his family. Visitation for family and friends will be Saturday, February 15, 2014 from 10:00 a.m. until Noon at Adams Funeral Chapel. A Graveside Service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the Humboldt Township Cemetery located west of Humboldt, Illinois. It is requested by the family that you please come as you are as casual attire is welcomed. Thoughtful donations in his honor may be made to a charity of choice and gifts may be left on the memorial table at the visitation or mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL 61920. Jim was born on September 11, 1930 in Seven Hickory Township, Coles County, Illinois to the late Ray and Stella (Hill) Newby. He married Ruth Eloise Stites on August 14, 1950. In addition to his wife, Eloise, he is survived by three children, Larry Newby (Pamela) of Charleston, Linda Swearingen of Mattoon and Jamee Thomson of San Antonio, Texas; six grandchildren, Matt Newby (Krissta) of Ashmore, Josh Newby (Lien Koztecki) of Springfield, Pennsylvania, Emily and Amanda Swearingen both of Maui, Hawaii, Travis and Trevor Thomson, both of San Antonio; two great-grandchildren, Ricky and Tony Newby of Ashmore; and his beloved dog, Peachy. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Newby; two sons-in-law, Dave Moutray and Steve Thomson; and a granddaughter, Jill Swearingen Noble. Jim was a graduate of Humboldt High School. He was a life-long farmer and raised polled shorthorn cattle. He was a charter member and vice president of the East Central Illinois Antique Farm Equipment Club, a member of the Chapter 10 & 32 International Harvester Collector's Club and the I & I Antique Club. Jim served as a director on the Coles County Fair Board and for many years was a Kickapoo Ramblers 4-H Club leader. The Loxa Presbyterian Church was his church home. Jim's family and friends will miss his presence in their lives, but his memory will live through the many stories and good times shared.
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