O’FALLON – James Jeremiah, 82, of O’Fallon, IL, formerly of Percy, IL, passed away on Monday, April 20, 2026, at Cambridge House of O’Fallon.

James was born on December 17, 1943, a son to Gerald V. and Delvia R. (Tosh) Jeremiah. He married Carol Louise Maes, formerly Carol Louise Hemmen, on August 29, 1980. She preceded him in death on December 24, 2025. James was a retired Musician (Tenor Saxophone Player), Photo Lithographer, and Electronics Technician. He was a member of First Baptist Church, Cutler, IL and formerly active in VFW and American Legion.

James was a devoted husband to Carol for over 45 years. Beloved father, grandfather, and a proud Army Veteran who served in the Vietnam war. He enjoyed hunting and fishing when he was not working. We have fond memories of camping trips, historical site visits, and mushroom hunting. James played in a number of bands over the years including The Chargers, Southern Thunder, and numerous others. He could make the Tenor Sax sing.

James will always be remembered as a loving “Paw Paw” who read stories, snuggled, and loved his grandchildren. His older grandchildren lovingly recall many fond memories of going for rides in the little red wagon pulled by his tractor.

James is survived by his children: James (Debra) Jeremiah, Jr. of Steeleville, IL, Liz Jeremiah (Ginny) Key of O’Fallon, IL; his step children: Jimmy Joe (Kim) Maes of Chester, IL, Mary (Craig) Maes Carder of Dahlonega, GA, Philip (Mary Beth) Maes of Chester, IL; his grandchildren: Ava and Mia Key, Patrick (Destiny) Harley, JD (Brandy) Maes and Sarah Maes, Kristen Maes, Jenna (Darren) Larkin; his great grandchildren: Vincent Jeremiah, Brantley James, McKinley James, Baylee James, Garrett Banfield, Natalee Handsbury, Madison Larkin, Will Larkin, Wade Larkin, Olive Maes, Samantha Maes, Lucas Maes, Nathaniel Maes, Tyree Maes, James Michael Maes; his siblings: Susan (Joe) Jeremiah of Steeleville, MO, Tim (Denise) Jeremiah of Lewisburg, TN, many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews, and his beloved cat, Spotty.

James was also preceded in death by his parents, brother, John, grandchildren: Zachary Jeremiah, Chris James; and a great grandchild, Kaley James.

Memorial services will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026, 6:00 pm, at Wilson’s Funeral Home, Steeleville, IL, with Pastor Becky Lembke officiating. Visitation will be Thursday evening, April 30, 2026, where friends may call from 5:00 pm until time of service at the funeral home. Burial will be Friday, May 1, 2026, 9:30 am, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO. Memorials may be given to Kaskaskia VFW Post #3553, Chester, IL, and can be mailed to Wilson’s Funeral Home, P.O. Box 217, Steeleville, IL 62288.