James "Jim Bob" Kingston

James “Jim Bob” Kingston, born on October 11, 1949, in Kankakee, Illinois to Juanita Payne Kingston and Sim Kingston in Kankakee, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 29, 2024 surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 75 years old. Jim spent his early years in Bradley, Illinois, where he attended BBCHS. On December 31, 1969, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and proudly served during the Vietnam Was until 1971. After his honorable service, Jim began a long career with the Illinois State Highway Department in February 1972, eventually retiring after 32 years of dedicated service in December 2002. On January 22, 1973, Jim married Kathryn Shreffler, the love of his life. Together, they built a life in Manteno, Illinois, where they raised their four daughters. Jim was a devoted family man and cherished his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. Jim was a proud member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and served as a past Commander of the American Legion Post 755. Jim was also a lifelong member of the Manteno Sportsmen’s Club. His sense of duty to his country and fellow veterans remained strong throughout his life. An Avid outdoorsman, Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching NASCAR. After retiring, he spent his time taking road trips in his RV with his wife and grandchildren, making countless memories. His grandchildren will always remember his fishing lessons and the joy he took in spoiling then with candy and soda. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy; daughters Tracy Kingston, Tricia Arrigo, Tiffany (Joe) Drazy, Tina (Ryan) Jackson, Corinne (Ryan) Bageard; and his grandchildren Jacob Hitz, Tyler Kingston, Ethan Arrigo, Giovanni Arrigo, Macy (Zach) Drazy-Mullady, Trevor Drazy, Carter Drazy, Kathryn Drazy, Reagan Jackson, Ramsey Jackson, and Jacob Bageard. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Ronin Jackson, Sophia Evans, and Addison Mullady. He is also survived by his sister Yvonne Brandenburg, along with many cherished nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Sim and Juanita Kingston; his brothers Ronnie, Bill, and Rocky; his sisters Bert, Wanda, and Sue; nephews Terry Rintala, Mitchell “Mickey” Kingston, James Andrew “Andy” Kingston; nieces Lisa Kingston, and Patricia Kingston; great nephew Colby Kingston; and his special grandson Ryley James Jackson. In accordance with Jim’s wishes, donations can be made to Ronin Jackson’s education fund in honor of his late grandson, Ryley James Jackson. Visitation will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024, from 9 a.m. until the memorial service at 11 a.m. at Brown-Jensen Funeral home in Manteno. Cremation rites will be accorded, as per Jim’s request. Jim will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, service, and devotion will continue to live on through his family and friends.