James Edward “Eddie” Tirey, 67 of Taylorville, passed away at 7:24p.m. on Monday, May 9, 2022.  He was born on December 15, 1954 in Stonington, the son of Floyd Leslie and Geneva Marie (Jones) Tirey.  He married Diane Coady on June 8, 1973 in Taylorville.  Eddie worked at Bob Ridings Ford for over 40 years where he retired as Body Shop Manager, a position he held for many years.  He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus where he served as Grand Knight.  He gave back to his community in many ways including serving as May Township Trustee, an election judge, and member of the Taylorville Optimist Club.  In his free time, he enjoyed fishing at Lake of the Ozarks, boating with family on Lake Taylorville, and he was most proud of being Papa Eddie and watching his grandchildren grow.  

He is survived by his wife: Diane Tirey of Taylorville; sons: Kevin Tirey (Jennifer) of New Berlin and Brian Tirey of Charleston; grandchildren: Riese Tirey, Flynn Tirey, and Katharine Tirey; sisters: Anna Collins and Elsie Durbin both of Taylorville; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings: Roy Tirey, Thelma Weaver, Judy Brown, John Tirey, Brenda Spoon, Richard Tirey, and Betty Hicks.

Eddie will be cremated, and a graveside memorial service will take place at 10:00a.m. on Friday, May 13, 2022 at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville with Monsignor David Lantz officiating.  Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic School, or the American Lung Association.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Eddie, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.