James “Jim” DeWilde, 68, of Taylorville, passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025, at 9:40 a.m. in St. Louis, MO. He was born in Taylorville, IL. A graduate of Taylorville High School, Class of 1975, Jim spent his life rooted in the community he loved.

He married Marsha Faye (Brasel) DeWilde in 1981, who preceded him in death. Jim was a retired teacher at Taylorville High School, where he taught in the academic wing and also served for many years as a football and cross-country coach prior to retirement. Earlier in his career, he was also employed by Peabody Mines. He was a member of the Taylorville United Methodist Church.

Jim enjoyed walking his dogs, following St. Louis Cardinals baseball, cheering on Tornado sports, and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his daughter, Caitlin (Karl) Beck; son, Jordan (Diego) DeWilde; grandsons, Griffin and Marshall Beck; brother, John (Arlene) DeWilde; his special friend, Sharon Schaubert; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 11:00-12:00 Noon at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 12:00 Noon at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Brennan Hurley officiating. Burial will be held in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or a local humane society.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.