James Ross Hockaday's Obituary
James Ross Hockaday, 88, of Forsyth, passed away Tuesday, March 26, 2019, in his home, surrounded by his family.
Jim was born January 24, 1931, in Forsyth, IL to Harold Jay and Nellie Mae (Gillen) Hockaday. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1952-1953. He married Phyllis Mullins on August 10, 1952 in Forsyth, IL. Jim owned and operated The Wells Insurance Agency for many years. He was a lifetime member of Forsyth United Methodist Church. He was a member of the Elks, a Chicago Cubs Fan, and avid golfer, which led him to work at the Hickory Point Golf Course for 24 years after retirement. Jim loved spending time with his family and friends.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Phyllis; two children, Jean (Bruce) Brouillette of Salem, IL and Jeffrey (Jenelle) Hockaday of Decatur, IL; three grandchildren, Justin Harrison, Robert Harrison and Joel Harrison; and three great grandchildren, Madilyn Harrison, Isaac Harrison and Rhett Harrison.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, James Keith Hockaday; four brothers and two sisters.
Funeral services to celebrate the life of James Hockaday will be 1 p.m. Friday, March 29, 2019, at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 28, at Forsyth United Methodist Church and from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, March 29, at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery, where full military honors will be conducted by the Macon County Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Forsyth United Methodist Church.
The family of James Ross Hockaday is being served by Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. Please view the complete online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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