James Richard Nevitt's Obituary
James R. Nevitt, 79, died on Thursday, March 9, 2017, at 4:30 a.m. in his home.
He was born in Springfield, Illinois on August 8, 1937 to Harold P. and Vera Evans Nevitt. He married his wife, Patricia Ann Clifton on August 23, 1964 and she survives.
In addition to his wife, Patricia, he is survived by his sons, Patrick (Lisa) of Woodstock, Georgia, Sean, and Eric (Fiance Marian Hersom) Nevitt of Decatur, brother, Jerald D. Nevitt (Diana) of Rochester, and granddaughters, Emily and Rachel Nevitt of Georgia. Also surviving are brother-in-laws Charles (Cathy) Clifton of Hannibal, Missouri and Larry (Joyce) Clifton of Granger, Indiana and several nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his mother-in-law, El Louise, and father-in-law, Jesse Clifton.
Jim played clarinet in the Lanphier High School band and graduated from Lanphier High School in Springfield. Subsequently he graduated from Blackburn College with a B.A. degree. During his college years, he was a member of the Blackburn choir.
Jim was educated as a teacher and took his responsibilities very seriously. He taught English and Social Studies for District 61 for 40 years and participated in extra-curricular activities such as coaching soccer and managing the time clock for games. He organized and supervised 28 annual student trips to Washington DC to enhance the students’ appreciation and understanding of the American system of government.
During his school years Jim was a member of Third Presbyterian Church in Springfield. He sang in the sanctuary choir for many years.
Jim was an avid bowler and a steadfast fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. He was a dedicated family man and loved children. He always stayed in touch with his family regardless of the distance from his home town of Decatur.
Funeral services to celebrate the life of James R. Nevitt will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 15, 2017 at First Presbyterian Church 204 W. Prairie Ave, Decatur. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 14, 2017, at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Burial will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield.
The family of James Richard Nevitt is being served by the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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