James R. Marcum

James R. Marcum, “old Papa”, age 98 years 7 months and 5 days, passed away peacefully at home while surrounded by family on September 5, 2025. James was born in Frazer, Kentucky on February 1, 1927 to his parents Isaac and Alma Marcum (nee Taylor).

Jim was born and raised in rural Kentucky in Wayne County. In his heart this was always home and created his love of the great outdoors. At the age of 15, he moved to Illinois where he met the love of his life, Twila Marcum (nee Florey). The two were wed on February 23, 1946 and raised 5 children over the course of their sixty-six-year marriage until her passing in 2012. They ultimately settled in Joliet, Il where they resided for seven decades and raised their family. Jim moved to Channahon and spent the last 5 years living with his daughter and favorite son-in-law.

Jim started his career in Joliet at the historic Old Joliet Prison as a corrections officer, before becoming a proud member of the Operating Engineer’s Union Local # 150 for thirty-three years.

Jim was a kind man with a gentle soul, that touched his family and many lives in the community. He was generous with his time, committing to causes such as the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Event and Trinity Services for special needs individuals. One of his very favorite pastimes was to share stories both new and old with a willing ear. His skilled storytelling and precise memory allowed him to paint a picture with words that could instantly transport the listener to another time and place. His core being was defined by family. They were the most important people to him throughout each day, and he loved to spend time with his many relatives young and old. He was known to have a Nutty Bar or rice krispie treat to share with one or more of the grandchildren and great grandchildren when visiting. He enjoyed classic country music, stirring the pot and mixing it up with buddies on the worksite, and just spending time outdoors in the beauty of nature.

He was preceded in death by his parents Isaac and Alma: the love of his life Twila Marcum (nee Florey); His sons Richard, Randy and Glen Marcum; one brother and seven sisters.

He is survived by his Children Brad (Kim) Marcum and Diane (Dave) Zuelke; daughters-in-law Jennianne and Pat Marcum; his grandchildren Sarah (Joe) Mitchell, Erin Marcum, Heather (Chris) Dunlap, Amy (Mike) Pepper, Derik Zuelke, Kevin (Amy) Marcum, Dana (Burke) Schuster, Brett (Samantha) Marcum, Patrick Marcum, Allison (Ben) Gunnink, and Tyler (Beth) Marcum; and his great grandchildren Emma, Tayler (Brad), Zac, Ryan, Kyle, Keegan, Emily, Audrey, Mallory, Kaelyn, John, James, Abigail, Laila, Joseph, Isaac and Jada. Beloved nieces Jean and Noree, along with numerous other cherished nieces and nephews. His faithful companion, Dixie Twila.

In lieu of flowers, donations in James’ name can be made to either Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, Il 60431 or to Joliet Park Foundation in honor of the Richard Marcum Scholarship 3000 W Jefferson St, Joliet, Il 60435 would be appreciated by the family.

A Celebration of life Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Tezak’s Home to Celebrate Life, 1211 Plainfield Rd. Joliet, Il 60435. A Funeral Service will be held on the morning of Thursday, September 11, 2025 at Tezak’s. Guest are welcome to arrive at 9:00 am for a 10:00 am service, before traveling in procession to Woodlawn Memorial Park, 23060 W. Jefferson St. Joliet, IL for a Chapel Committal Service.