Walter James "Jim" Schoenberg's Obituary
Our lives became a little less bright on September 18, 2025, with the passing of Walter James “Big Jim” Schoenberg. Born on September 14, 1946, in Murphysboro, Illinois, to Walter and Elizabeth (McIntyre) Schoeneberg. "Big Jim" lived his life with a big heart, a big laugh, and an even bigger sense of humor that brought joy to everyone around him.
Jim was a loyal husband to his beloved “Joy Joy,” his wife of 42 years, a loving father to his girls, Kimmie Jo and Cort, and a supportive stepfather to Richard and Susie. He beamed with pride over his six grandchildren—Tyler, Dylan, Wyatt, Hattie, RJ, and Quaid—and his great-granddaughters, Halle and Eliza, who brought him endless joy.
A proud veteran, Jim served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War in both the infantry and mechanic divisions. After his service, he spent more than 30 years building a career with Laborers Local Union 159 before retiring with Christy Foltz. If you’ve walked through downtown Decatur, chances are you’ve passed by something Jim built with his own two hands—a legacy of hard work and dedication.
Jim was an active member of the American Legion Post 0105 and the Oldsmobile Club of America. In his younger years, he loved to hunt and fish, and he filled his garages with vintage cars, tools, and treasures. Jim and Joy traveled the country, proudly showing off his award-winning ’68 Oldsmobile convertible. Many will remember Big Jim in his white t-shirt, overalls, and Crocs, working in the yard or tinkering with projects around the house. He loved his music—mornings with coffee and Bob Seger, Smokey Robinson, or Elvis—and his TV favorites, from Gunsmoke to Yellowstone. He recently found a new love for Suduko, and he never passed up a good scratch off ticket - or the chance to share a laugh with a good friend.
Above all, Jim will be remembered for his sharp one-liners, his bigger-than-life personality, and his ability to make everyone feel like family. His legacy of love, loyalty, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Jim is survived by his wife, Joycelyn (Cinnamon Bond) Schoenberg of Decatur, Illinois; daughters Kimberly (Jason) Morrison of Sparta, Illinois, and Cortney (James) Newby of Elgin, Illinois; stepson Richard (Suzanne) Bond of Williamsville, Illinois; stepdaughter Susan Bond of Scottsdale, Arizona; grandchildren Tyler Morrison, Dylan Morrison, Wyatt Morrison, Hattie Bond, Richard “R.J.” Bond, and Quaid Newby; great-granddaughters Halle Morrison and Eliza Morrison; brother Bill (Brenda) Schoeneberg; and sister Sherry Cole. He was also adored by his nephews, Brad (Ronda) Schoenberg, Ron (Mary) Cole, Clint (Kelly) Cole, niece Melanie Brink, and great nieces and nephews, Ryan, Lauren, and Aaron Brink, Faith, Charity, and Ronnie Cole, Victoria and Brianna Schoeneberg, and Erika and Haley Cole, All of them cherished their “Uncle Jim.”
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Betty Schoenberg; brother-in-law Ron Cole; in-laws Raymond and Rita Cinnamon; and great-niece Hope Cole.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, September 26, 2025, at Moran and Goebel Funeral Home with visitation two hours prior to the service time. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, September 29, 2025, at Camp Butler National Cemetery, Springfield, IL.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to doners choice.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in care of Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Homes https://www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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