James “Jim” Carson Reed, 80, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away peacefully at home on November 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on July 29, 1946, in Princeton, Indiana to Carson and Betty (Strine) Reed. Growing up, Jim worked on the family farm alongside his grandfather, Mac Reed, whose profound influence remained with him throughout his life. He attended Adams Corner, a one-room schoolhouse, and graduated from Allendale School.
Jim was a well-known farmer in Wabash County and owned Reed Farms. He dedicated 26 years to agriculture and managed 3,500 acres. Driven by a true passion for carpentry, he eventually transitioned from the fields to the workshop. He established J.R.’s Originals, which specialized in the restoration of antiques and turn-of-the-century homes. For 24 years he worked as a master carpenter, respected for his meticulous craftmanship and extensive knowledge of historical architecture. His work can be seen throughout the tri-state area, including the Soaper-Esser house, which was featured in the film, “A League of Their Own.” Jim took great pride in every task he undertook and his unwavering commitment to excellence left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
On November 10, 1978, Jim married Victoria Sharp, and they celebrated thirty-six years of marriage before her passing. He was a devoted husband and father, who treasured time spent with his loved ones. Later, he married Pamela Bonneville on September 12, 2015, and they shared 11 years together.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jim was defined by his vibrant, charismatic personality and down-to-earth nature. He possessed an open heart, a generous spirit, and a wonderful sense of humor that instantly put people at ease. A natural entertainer, he found joy in cooking hearty meals for family and friends, listening to music, and keeping things lively with a competitive game of cards or pool. He especially loved target shooting and was an avid collector of antiques. In his younger years, Jim spent summers traveling across Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky on the tractor pull circuit, where he was a frequent first-place winner, earning headlines in regional newspapers. Through these varied interests, he formed lasting friendships that he cherished.
He is survived by his wife, Pamela; children, Tina Hargan, Susan (Lloyd) Hughes, Tory Reed, Jamie (Stan) Kujawa; nine grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren; father, Carson Reed; and his sister, Darla (Gary) Gard.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, James and Bessie Strine; paternal grandparents, Virgil and Ruth Reed; his mother, Betty Reed; his beloved wife, Victoria Reed; sons, James “Jimmie” Reed and Scott Sharp; grandson, Logan Reed; and granddaughter, Victoria Kujawa.
Jim leaves behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and a quiet devotion to his family. His passion for life touched all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, and the impact he made on our lives will endure forever.
In honoring Jim’s wishes, private family services will be held by invitation only. He will be laid to rest at Allendale Cemetery.
The Reed family extends a heartfelt thank you to our dear friends and hospice nurses for their loving care and support.
Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com.
Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Reed family.
