Jimmy C. ""Jim"" Austin's Obituary
ARCOLA, IL - Jimmy Craig Austin, age 60 of rural Arcola, Illinois, passed away at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center on Tuesday, June 17, 2014. Jim's family, with the assistance of Adams Funeral Chapel, will host a Memorial Celebration of his life from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 2014 at the Charleston Elks Club located at 720 6th Street in Charleston. There will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Gifts may be left on the memorial table at the celebration or may be mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL 61920. Jim was born on February 7, 1954 in Charleston to William "Bill" and Rosemary (Craig) Austin. He and Tomi Sue Newby were united in marriage on March 2, 1973 at the Walnut Grove Christian Church and have shared 41 years of marriage. In addition to his wife Tomi Sue of rural Arcola, he is survived by his sons, Mark Austin and wife Angela of Ashmore, Illinois and Jami Austin of Charleston; three grandchildren, Abagail, Wyatt and Hailey Austin; his mother, Rosemary Austin of Charleston; two sisters, Billie Connelly and husband Tom of Charleston and Jo Ellen Watkins and husband John of Arthur, Illinois; Tomi's parents, Ron and Peggy Newby of Charleston; and several nieces and nephews and their families. In addition to his father, Jim was preceded in death by a sister, Susan Swango. Jim was a 1972 graduate of Charleston High School. He was a self-employed farmer and along with his sons, farmed family-owned land in Charleston, Seven Hickory, Morgan and Humboldt Townships. Jim was devoted to the following organizations and not only placed his membership with them but gave of his time and resources: Charleston Elks, B.P.O.E. #623; Charleston Moose Lodge #1388; Mattoon Eagles Club, Charleston VFW Men's Auxiliary, Ashmore Masonic Lodge #390 A.F. & A.M., Cornbelt Shrine Club, Pro Pulling League, and the Illinois Tractor Pulling Association (ITPA) where he also served on its Board of Directors. There are many different ways in which one might have known Jim Austin. Some knew Jim Austin - The Puller! He loved his big boy toys and the competitive sport of truck and tractor pulling. Jim enjoyed being a member of the Pro Pulling League and as a member and board member of the ITPA was instrumental in making certain that it remain the premier truck and tractor pulling organization in Illinois as well as the Midwest. The people whom he supported and encouraged in this sport are innumerable. Some knew Jim Austin - The Farmer! He was devoted to the family farm and to bringing his two sons on board teaching them how to run a successful farming operation. Some knew Jim Austin - The Sports Fan! He enjoyed cheering for both the Cubs and the Cardinals (which is rare) and was a fan of NASCAR and of both Dale Earnhardt and Dale Earnhardt Jr. Farther south some knew Jim Austin - The Snowbird. Following the harvest season he was ready to escape the cold Illinois winter and enjoy some leisure time in the warmth and sun of Fort Myers, Florida. An elite group was fortunate to know Jim Austin - The Family Man! He was a loving son and brother and an extremely devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was a role model for his children and grandchildren and leaves for them a legacy with hard work and respect as its foundation. Everyone knew Jim Austin - The Character and Loyal Friend! His presence was not only felt but heard the minute he entered a room and when you heard that familiar signature voice - you knew that laughter and good times were ahead. Jim will always be remembered for his love of people, his willingness to help others while expecting nothing in return and for the way in which he made everyone feel they were important and a part of his immeasurable circle of friends. In the words of friend and fellow puller, Miles Krieger, "Pull on Jim and God Speed" .
What’s your fondest memory of Jimmy?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jimmy?
Share a story where Jimmy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jimmy you’ll never forget.
How did Jimmy make you smile?