James was born on October 29, 1931 to Harry and Fern (Pepple) Egley at their farmhouse in Warsaw, IL. James passed on April 29, 2026 at his home in Warsaw, IL surrounded by his family.

Jim leaves behind his siblings Sherrill and Byron. Jim was survived by his children, Rod and Robin, and Jess and Jeff. Grandchildren: Jerry (deceased), Mason and Janice, Jeremy and Kim, Nate and Kristi, Ashley, and Haley and Nick. Great Grandchildren: Evan, Jazmin, Olivia, Abby, Billy, Destiny, Alex, Nya, AJ, Kali, Summer, Landon and Dakota.

Jim was an Airman First Classman serving from April 3, 1951 to March 26, 1954, during the Koren Conflict. He was assigned to a B-29 refueler, refueling planes over the Koren Straight. He had a lifelong commitment to the Warsaw VFW Post 9802. He was a post commander for over 40 years and nightly patron for over 50 years.

The family believes his pride and joy was carrying on and expanding the Egley Family Farms. He farmed alongside his dad growing up. He inherited 1/3rd of the families 80-acre farm with Sherrill and Byron. Working with his son and grandchildren, the farming operation now consists of 475 acres. In 2023, the farm his grandpa and grandma bought in 1905 was recognized as an Illinois Department of Agriculture Centennial Farm, which stands for over 100 years in the same family. Currently the 5th and 6th Egley generation lives on the farm. Less than 1% of farms in America reach the 6th generation.

Above all, his family and friends were his greatest joy in life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Warsaw VFW Post 9802 and the Great River Honor Flight.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM, Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Printy Funeral Home in Warsaw with burial to follow in Oakland Cemetery in Warsaw with military rites accorded by the Hancock County Honor Guard and U.S. Air Force. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until time of services at noon at the funeral home. Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.