James W. J.R. Righter Obituary (1946 - 2019)

James W. "J.R." Righter, 73, of Odell, passed away Wednesday, November 20, 2019, at 8:23 p.m. at BroMenn Medical Center in Normal, IL surrounded by his family. A Memorial Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 24, 2019, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Duffy-Baier-Snedecor Funeral Home with full military honors to follow. Duffy-Baier-Snedecor Funeral Home, Pontiac, is in charge of arrangements. Jim was born June 1, 1946, in New Lenox, IL to Walter P. and M. Adelaide (Guest) Righter. He married Toni McCue on June 19, 1984. She survives in Odell. He is also survived by his children, James (Lisa) Mehrkens of Fairbury, IL, Chastity (Nicholas) Pick of Chenoa, IL, Sally Diemer of Bloomington, IL, Amy (Kris) Bachtold of Forrest, IL, and Hedda (Soby) Kuriakose of Mundelein, IL; 12 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents. Jim was a graduate of Saunemin High School, Class of 1964. He spent his entire working career as an over-the-road truck driver until his retirement. He also co-owned and operated the Garden Path in rural Odell with his wife. Jim was inducted into the United States Army on April 20, 1966, and proudly served during the Vietnam War until being honorably discharged on April 19, 1972. Jim enjoyed playing poker with family and friends. He was an enthusiast of go-cart racing. He loved his cats and never met a stranger in his life. He also enjoyed being a vendor at the Ottawa Farmers Market. Memorials may be made to any military veteran organization of the donors choice. Online condolences may be made to the family at duffyfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.