James “Jim” Baxter, a beloved educator, world traveler, and devoted family man, passed away on Monday, August 10th, 2026, in Centralia, Illinois, at the age of 84. Born on January 18th, 1942, Jim is the son of James Morgan Baxter and Florence Ann (Albright) Baxter. He lived a life full of love, adventure, and dedication to both his family and his community.
On June 9, 1968, he married his love, Charlotte (Dudley) Baxter and they shared 47 wonderful years together before she passed on September 30, 2015.
Jim excelled academically, earning a master’s degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) before embarking on a 34-year-long career as the department head business teacher at Centralia High School. Known for his passion for education and his students’ success, Jim left an indelible mark on the lives of countless young individuals.
As a man of faith and a long-standing member of the Church of Christ, Jim practiced his beliefs through his actions, nurturing a welcoming spirit that resonated within his community. His love for photography led him to join the Light and Lens Club, capturing the beauty of the world in both nature and in life. He traveled across all 50 states and explored the world with a curious heart, embracing the wonders each place had to offer.
Jim was actively involved in his community, supporting literacy and learning as a member of the Friends of the Library in Centralia. His appreciation for nature was evident in his love for hiking, where he found solace and inspiration on winding trails and forest paths.
He is survived by his dedicated children: Mary Arnold of Centralia, Kevin Baxter and wife Shari Hongsermeier-Baxter of Festus, Missouri, and Sean Baxter and wife Bridget of Colorado Springs, Colorado. James was the proud grandfather of five: Mimi Hongsermeier-Baxter and significant other Jarod Mercer, Elijah Hongsermeier-Baxter, Rain Khakimov and husband Batyr, Arielle Arnold and husband Aaron Reeves and Mallory Arnold. His legacy lives on in each of them.
Jim was preceded in death by his loving parents, James Morgan Baxter and Florence Ann (Albright) Baxter, as well as his dear wife, Charlotte (Dudley) Baxter. Although their absence is deeply felt, Jim’s spirit reunites with them now in eternal peace.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 15th, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia. A Funeral Service will follow at 10:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton, Illinois.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Church of Christ in Centralia and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home located at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Jim’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family, please visit our Sympathy Store.
James Baxter lived a life rich with experiences and cherished relationships. He will be remembered for his inspirational impact, his unwavering dedication to those he loved, and his boundless curiosity for the world. His legacy will forever remain in the hearts he touched and the lives he enriched.
