James William Butts, age 66, of Kinmundy, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon.
James was born on April 27, 1960, in Urbana, Illinois, the son of Dale and Janet (Hill) Butts. He married Loretta Marie Hickman on January 27, 1995, in Paducah, Kentucky and she preceded him in death.
James worked as a sprayer for Tri-Ag and was still employed at the time of his passing. He also proudly served his country in the United States Army.
James enjoyed the simple things in life and especially loved being outdoors. Fishing and hunting were favorite pastimes, and he also enjoyed picking his guitar, canning, and working in the garden. He was well known for his homemade salsa and enjoyed sharing the things he grew and made with others. Above all, James treasured spending time with his family and grandchildren.
He is survived by his children, Trever Butts and significant other Gabrielle Smith, Raeann Ashley, and Brittani Butts; grandchildren, Raven Hollingshead, Greyson Butts, Sawyer Evans, and Kinsleigh Butts; siblings, Rick Butts, Bob Butts, and Debbie Peddicord; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; sister, Rhoda Farley; his grandparents; and best friend and cousin, Danny Butts.
A graveside service for James William Butts will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at Alma Cemetery, with Josh Conley officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until noon at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem. Memorial contributions can be made to a college fund for his grandchildren, with checks made payable to Debbie Peddicord and can be received at the funeral home. Online condolences can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.
