James Lee Erwin Jr.

James Lee Erwin Jr., 63, of Port St. Joe, Fla., formerly of Du Quoin, passed away at 1:15 p.m. EST on Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012 at his home surrounded by his family and close friends. Jim had suffered a year long battle with cancer.

Jimmy had served in the U.S. Navy. He was a retired tree trimmer with Asplund. He was a member and past Exalted Ruler of the Elks #884. Jimmy was also a member of IBEW. He was of the Christian faith. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

He was born Feb. 10, 1949 at Salem, Ill., the son of James L. and LaJean (Erdman) Erwin Sr.

He married Carol E. Heiman on Dec. 11, 1991 at Paducah, Ky. and she survives.

He is survived by his wife of Port St. Joe, Fla., two daughters - LeeAnn Landmann and husband Roger of Highland, Ill. and Jennifer Sanders and husband Travis of Salem, Ill., two step sons - Greg Allen and wife Leigh of New Smyrna Beach, Fla. and Jon Allen and wife Jen of Pinckneyville, two sisters - Ruth Showalter and husband Greg and Jill Leake and husband Tim, all of Du Quoin, nine grandchildren, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m., Friday, Oct. 26, 2012 at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin with Priest Michael Knapp officiating.

Friends may call from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Friday at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin.

Burial will be in the Sunset Memorial Park at Du Quoin.

Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Du Quoin V.F.W. and American Legion and the U.S. Navy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Cancer Society or MS Society and will be accepted at the funeral home.

For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.