James D. “Jim” Lewis, 84, of Mount Carmel, Illinois passed away peacefully on Monday, April 16, 2018 at Oakview Heights Continuous Care and Rehab.  He was born on July 27, 1933 in Wabash County, Illinois, the son of Zed and Golda (Bye) Lewis.  Jim married Betty Hicks on January 20, 1956 and she preceded him in death on December 12, 2002 after forty-six years of marriage.

Jim faithfully served his country in the United States Air Force.  He was employed for thirty-seven years at Emge Meat Packing Company before retiring.  During his retirement, Jim and his wife Betty greatly enjoyed camping and fishing at Conservation Lake.  He became a life member of the Wabash Valley Conservation Club.  Jim also enjoyed woodworking as a hobby.  He dearly loved his family and his grandchildren were the light of his life.  Jim was a member of the First General Baptist Church.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jim will be remembered by his two daughters, Vicki (Dean) Hillyard and Sue (Eric) McKnight; two grandchildren, Shelby McKnight and Andrew Hillyard along with several nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his loving wife Betty Lewis; son, Michael Lewis; three brothers, Frank, Harold Ray and Charles Lewis.

Funeral services will be 3:00 p.m., Monday, April 23, 2018 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Underwood officiating.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery with full Military Honors.

Family and friends may gather for a visitation from 1:00p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday, April 23, 2018 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to the First General Baptist Church Building Fund.  Envelopes will be available at the Funeral Home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL  62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Jim’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Lewis family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.