James "Jim" Edward Heern Jr.

James “Jim” Edward Heern Jr., 75, of Hurst, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 9, 2023, at home, surrounded by his family.

He was born November 17, 1947, in Carbondale, to James Edward Heern Sr. and Alburna Rose (Atkins) Heern. They preceded him in death as well as his grandparents.

Jim is survived by his son, James Michael Heern of Carterville; grandchildren, Seth and Sydney Heern; great-granddaughters, Bryn and Caroline Heern; sister, Judy (Gary) Billiot of Marion; brother, Jerry (Tammy) Heern of Carterville; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and long time friend, Kathleen Smothers.

He worked as a carpenter for 43 years for Phillips & Arnold and A&K until retiring in 2007.

Jim belonged to Masonic Lodge #802. He was of the Methodist Faith.

In his younger days, Jim was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and hunting. He had many hobbies throughout his life. He took up photography and scuba diving. Jim especially loved riding his Harley with his son, brother, and many good friends. He took several road trips before he could no longer ride.   

Jim fought his illness long and hard. He gave his all until the very end.

He was loved and will be missed by many. One journey ends, another begins. “You live once, but, if you do it right, once is enough.”

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 15, 2023, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with Pastor Matt Brown officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SIH Cancer Center or to Hospice of Southern Illinois.

The family would like to thank everyone who reached out and helped Jim during this time. A special thanks to Dr. Popalzia and the wonderful staff at SIH Center and Hospice of Southern Illinois.

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