James Albert Blakeman, 81 of Edinburg, passed away on Sunday, September 29, 2024, in his home.  He was born on January 9, 1943, in Taylorville, the son of Albert G. and Camille (Bertucci) Blakeman.  He married Margaret Jean Clifton on August 19, 1962, in the Edinburg United Methodist Church.  Jim served in the U.S. Army and retired from Caterpillar where he worked as a millwright for 38 years.  He was a member of the UAW and an avid Cardinals baseball fan.  Jim took great pride in his family homestead.  While in high school he drafted plans for a home that he turned into a reality in 1980.  He loved creating and maintaining a home for his family.  He enjoyed John Deere tractors.  More than anything he loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife: Margaret Blakeman of Edinburg; daughters: Diane Wilham (Dwight) of Taylorville and Sharon Corso (Scott York) of Kincaid; grandchildren: Lindsey Stoner (Jeff), Emily Wilham, Amber Wilham (Coleton Fields), and Aaron James Corso; great grandchildren: Clayton James Stoner and Benson Stoner; sisters: Mary Ann McPeak (George) of Edwardsville, Marilyn Ryan (Phil) of Taylorville, and Carolyn Mohn of Taylorville; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Jim will be cremated, and a memorial service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Sr. Rose McKeown officiating.  The visitation will be held one hour prior to the service and inurnment will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the Journey Like June Foundation.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.