Jim Skiles

McCLURE, Ill. — Jimmie "Jim" Lee Skiles, 88, of McClure, currently residing in Swansea, Illinois, passed away Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, surrounded by his family.

He was born Sept. 12, 1935, in Jonesboro, Illinois, to Everett and Hazel Smith Skiles.

Jim was a dedicated and committed employee of General Motors for an extraordinary 30 years. He was a true union man who advocated for the well-being and fair treatment of his fellow workers.

Jim was an avid pool player and loved socializing with friends. He had a passion for country music and dancing with his significant other, Ina. Jim and Ina also would enjoy traveling to many different place throughout the years together. He also enjoyed old westerns, especially "Gunsmoke"; his collection of many hats and tending to his vegetable garden.

Jim loved the Lord and was a member of Christ the King Apostolic Church in O'Fallon, Illinois. He had an unwavering commitment to his family and loved spending time with them, especially his children and grandchildren. He demonstrated unparalleled strength. His refusal to give up, even during the most difficult times, was a testament to his remarkable character. He will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

Survivors left to cherish his memory include his loving children, Marilyn (Buddy) Hollis, Kami (Darrell) Welch, Lana (Tony) Rusterberg, Stephen (Deanna) Skiles and Karen (Kevin) Hooker; brother, Larry "Bo" (Tina) Skiles; significant other for 37 years, Ina Jett; grandchildren, Chris (Kelly) Hollis, Candance Welch, Dustin (Laura) Gross, Shellie (Brian) Welch, Kimberly (Aaron) Wright, Melanie Hollis, Brittany (Derek) Zinck, Corey (Alyssa) Skiles and Seth Skiles; stepgrandchildren, Ryan (Katie) Rusterberg, Jessica (Paris) Rusterberg and Emily Rusterberg; great-grandchildren, Gabriella Hollis, Zachary Wright, Layton Hollis, Ana Hollis, Zaylie Wright, Greyson Zinck, Hannah Gross, Paisley Gross and Brian Hale III; great-stepgrandchildren, Carter Johnson, Ellie Wade and Eli Wade; and dear cousin, Burnell (Judy) Smith.

Jimmie was preceded in death by his parents.

A visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25, at Christ the King Apostolic Church, 6920 Old Collinsville Road in O'Fallon. A second visitation will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, at the church, with the funeral beginning at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Lindsey Cemetery in McClure.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christ the King Apostolic Church.

Lake View Funeral Home in Fairview Heights, Illinois, is in charge of arrangements.