James Alvin Saxbery

James Alvin Saxbery, 100, Quincy, Ill., passed away at 11:13 a.m., Monday, April 24, 2023, at Sunset Home in Quincy, Ill.

James was born July 1, 1922, in Ilasco, Mo., to William Alvin and Kitty Fern Byrd Saxbery.  He was married to the love of his life, Erma Dean Gaskill, on Nov. 17, 1955 in Quincy. She preceded him in death on March 12, 2008.

Survivors include his children, James Steven Saxbery (Mary), Quincy; Gloria Buehler (Terry), Quincy; Dennis Alvin Saxbery (Ruth) Springfield, Ill.; and Patty Saxbery, Quincy; step-daughter, Suzanne Cheser, Columbia, Mo.; grandchildren, David Wallace, Dan Wallace, Keith Saxbery, Carrie Saxbery, Johnny Saxbery and Jason Saxbery; three step-grandchildren, Debra Moore, Deanna Welker and Donna Hoener; numerous great-grandchildren; and his best and caring friend, Maureen Leckbee.

James was preceded in death by his parents; step-daughter, Donna Sue Dillinger; daughter, Teresa S. Saxbery; great grandson, Isaac Andrew Saxbery; granddaughter, Teresa Lynn Saxbery; and numerous brothers and sisters.

James joined and was proud to serve his country during World War II as a corporal in the United States Marine Corps. He served in action, along with his comrades, in the Marianas campaign in 1944.

Professionally James worked as a papermill operator at Celotex Corp, formerly Packaging Corp, for 42 years until his retirement in 1986. 

James looked forward to anytime spent outdoors, often that was just mowing the grass at home, although fishing on the Mississippi, boating, and camping with friends and being with family brought him the most joy.  

James liked to spend time with friends playing a little gin rummy, watching old westerns, taking in the local news or spending time in quiet solitude reading his Bible. His love of music, especially from country western greats like Porter Wagner, Conway Twitty or Loretta Lynn would encourage him to get up and dance a bit, if the tune was right. 

Over the years, he would talk about the old times and the many changing eras he lived through.

James was Calvary Baptist by Faith.

Graveside services with full military honors performed by American Legion Post #174 Boots-Dickson will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, April 28, at Quincy Memorial Park. Pastor Dewayne Larenson will officiate.

Memorials may be made to donor’s choice.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Sunset Home for the care and consideration they shared with James.

Online condolences may be shared at www.LewisBrothersFuneralChapel.com.