James Earl Jones Obituary: Cherished Carbondale Resident and Beloved Father James Earl ‘Jimbo’ Jones, Born on August 17, 1970, at Holden Hospital, Illinois, Passes Away at Age 53 Leaving Behind a Legacy of Dedication to Family, Passion for the Outdoors, and Unwavering Commitment to His Son’s Baseball Journey – A Tribute to His Life, Death, and the Enduring Impact on Loved Ones and the Community
James Earl Jones Obituary: Cherished Carbondale Resident and Beloved Father James Earl ‘Jimbo’ Jones, Born on August 17, 1970, at Holden Hospital, Illinois, Passes Away at Age 53 Leaving Behind a Legacy of Dedication to Family, Passion for the Outdoors, and Unwavering Commitment to His Son’s Baseball Journey – A Tribute to His Life, Death, and the Enduring Impact on Loved Ones and the Community
James Earl Jones, affectionately known as Jimbo or Bo, was born to his proud parents, Gary Don Jones and Sheila Dianne Russell, on a warm summer evening, precisely at 7:38 p.m., on August 17, 1970, at Holden Hospital in Carbondale, Illinois. From the very moment of his birth, James Earl Jones, or Jimbo as he would come to be called by those who loved him, was destined to be a figure of strength, kindness, and boundless energy. As a child, he exhibited an early passion for the outdoors, a trait that would define much of his adult life. Growing up in the serene and picturesque surroundings of Illinois, Jimbo found solace in the natural world, cultivating a deep connection with nature that would only grow stronger with time. This love for the outdoors was not just a hobby but a way of life for Jimbo, one that he would eagerly share with those closest to him, particularly his beloved son, Bodie.
Jimbo’s early years were marked by a strong sense of family and community. His parents instilled in him values of hard work, integrity, and a deep respect for others, which would shape his interactions throughout his life. As he matured, these values were further reinforced by his experiences and the relationships he built, particularly in the world of sports. Jimbo was not just a passive participant in life; he was a doer, someone who took initiative and led by example. This was most evident in his role as a coach, where his dedication to the game of baseball and to the young players he mentored was unparalleled. Whether on the field or off, Jimbo’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship was unwavering.
In addition to his passion for coaching, Jimbo was an avid hunter and fisherman. These activities were not merely pastimes for him; they were an integral part of his identity. The thrill of the hunt, the patience required in fishing, and the time spent in nature provided Jimbo with a profound sense of peace and fulfillment. These experiences also allowed him to bond with his son Bodie in a way that was uniquely special. The time they spent together in the great outdoors, whether it was tracking game or casting a line, was more than just father-son bonding; it was the passing down of a legacy, a tradition that Jimbo hoped Bodie would carry forward.
Jimbo’s dedication to his family was perhaps most poignantly demonstrated in the choices he made regarding his own athletic pursuits. After being selected for the all-state team in slow-pitch softball, a significant achievement in any athlete’s career, Jimbo made the selfless decision to step away from the sport. This decision was not made lightly, but it was driven by a deeper sense of responsibility and love for his son. Jimbo wanted to ensure that he could fully support Bodie’s burgeoning baseball career, a commitment that speaks volumes about the kind of father he was. His choice to prioritize his son’s dreams over his own ambitions is a testament to the depth of his character and the selflessness that defined him.
In his professional life, Jimbo worked as the director of maintenance at Home Rentals, a position he held with pride and dedication. His work ethic and the relationships he built with his coworkers were a source of great satisfaction for him. Even as he battled illness, Jimbo continued to approach his work with the same level of commitment and enthusiasm that he brought to all aspects of his life. His colleagues at Home Rentals valued him not just for his professional contributions but for the warmth and camaraderie he brought to the workplace. The support he received from his company during his illness was a reflection of the high regard in which he was held by everyone who knew him.
Jimbo’s passing has left a profound void in the lives of those who loved him, particularly his cherished son Bodie and his stepdaughter Hannah Clark. The bond he shared with Bodie was especially strong, forged through countless hours spent on the baseball field and in the great outdoors. For Bodie, Jimbo was not just a father but a mentor, a coach, and a friend. His loss is a deeply personal one, felt not only by his immediate family but by the entire community that had the privilege of knowing him. In addition to Bodie and Hannah, Jimbo is survived by his mother, Sheila Dianne Russell, and his closest friends, Phil Bullar and Dustin Swain. His sisters, Micki Moon, Tammy Coffer, and Chrissy Bittner, along with their respective families, are also mourning his passing.
The impact of Jimbo’s life extended far beyond his immediate family. He was a beloved figure in the community, known for his kindness, generosity, and the positive influence he had on the lives of so many. His nieces and nephews, including Cody Moon, Amy Wece, Levi Coffer, Riley Coffer, Miranda VanZandt, MaKenzi Kreger, and Kierstyn Bittner, each had a special relationship with their uncle Jimbo, one that was marked by love, laughter, and the many lessons he imparted. The outpouring of support from the community in the wake of his passing is a testament to the lasting impact he had on the lives of those around him.
In memory of Jimbo and his gentle, caring nature, particularly his concern for children facing illness, the family has invited those who wish to honor his legacy to make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This gesture is in keeping with the values that Jimbo held dear and serves as a fitting tribute to a man who spent his life caring for others. Donations can be sent directly to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, ensuring that Jimbo’s legacy of compassion and kindness continues to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
The family also wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the nurses and technicians at Carbondale Memorial Hospital, particularly those on the fourth floor, for the extraordinary care and support they provided during Jimbo’s final days. Their kindness and professionalism were a source of comfort to Jimbo and his family during a very difficult time, and their efforts will never be forgotten.
A celebration of Jimbo’s life will be held at the Carbondale Elks Lodge on the evening of August 16, 2024. This gathering will be an opportunity for family, friends, and community members to come together to remember and pay tribute to a man who touched so many lives. The event, which will take place from 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM, is open to all who wish to honor Jimbo’s memory and reflect on the many ways in which he enriched the lives of those around him. As the community gathers to celebrate his life, they will remember Jimbo not just for his many accomplishments, but for the kindness, generosity, and love that defined him.
In the end, James Earl Jones, known to many as Jimbo, was a man who lived his life with purpose, passion, and a deep commitment to those he loved. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to be touched by his life. As we reflect on the life of this remarkable individual, we are reminded of the importance of family, community, and the enduring power of love and dedication. Jimbo’s life was a testament to these values, and his memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
