James ‘Jim’ Leon Patton of Sidell
James “Jim” Leon Patton, 78, of Sidell, Ill., passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 11:01 p.m., surrounded by the love of his family.
Jim was born Jan. 6, 1948, in Shawneetown to the late Omar and Maggie Kent Patton.
He was a devoted and loving husband to Shelley Archer Patton for 49 years. Jim and Shelley were married on Dec. 24, 1976, in Allerton, Ill., and built a life centered on family and commitment. He was a deeply cherished father to Angela “Angie” Patton Yates (Frank), Steven Patton (Angie), Kathryn Patton Lapin (Arthur), and James Clay Patton (Alexandra). He was preceded in death by his son, Cody James Patton.
He was also a proud grandfather to Tristan Yates, Anakin “Stone” Yates, Jesse “Cruz” Yates, Makaylia Patton Pray, Colton Patton and Mary Katherine Patton, and three great-grandchildren, all of Alabama. His family was the center of his life, and he took immense pride in each of them.
He is also survived by his beloved sister, Joann Patton Mahan, and his niece, Ashley Mahan Roper (Justin), and their son Jaxton. He shared a close and meaningful bond with Joann and Ashley, and together they spent many years traveling, creating memories that remained important to him throughout his life.
Jim was the owner and manager of Sidell Agri-Services, the grain elevator and fertilizer plant in Sidell, where he was known for his strong work ethic and the relationships he built within the community. He approached both his work and his life with integrity, humility, and a genuine care for others. He was a lifetime member of the Sidell Lions Club and also served in the National Guard.
He enjoyed boating and camping, and valued the time spent outdoors with his family. His interest in his work followed him wherever he went, often leading him to drive through grain elevators in every town he drove through, much to the familiar experience of his family.
He will be remembered most for his kindness and compassion — for his family, for friends, for strangers and even for animals. He was always willing to lend a helping hand. He lived his life as a true Christian man, quietly walking in faith and leading by example.
In his later years, as Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s disease progressed, he remained steady — meeting each stage with strength, dignity, grace and a clear appreciation for all those who cared for him.
Though he is no longer with us, his presence will live on in the countless memories shared by those who loved him. His legacy is one of love, generosity and unwavering devotion to his family and all those around him.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Visitation was held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the Sidell United Methodist Church. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at the Sidell United Methodist Church with Joe Eakle officiating. Burial, alongside Cody, will be in the Fairview Cemetery in rural Sidell. Memorials to the Sidell United Methodist Church. Robison Chapel, Catlin, Ill., is handling the arrangements. Online condolences are at robisonchapel.com.