James Lee “Jim” Finney, 96, of Oblong, passed away peacefully at 6:25 A.M. Monday, October 6, 2025, at Robinson Rehab and Nursing, Robinson, IL.
Jim was born August 25, 1929, in Oblong, IL, the son of Harold Randolph Finney and D. Eulah LeFever Finney Mikeworth. He married the love of his life, Lulu B. O’Dell, on March 9, 1953, in Lawrenceville, IL, and together they shared more than 72 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and devotion. She survives in Oblong.
Also surviving are one son, Danny (Carolyn) Finney of Champaign, IL; three grandchildren, Jennifer (Andy) Schmidt of Schaumburg, IL, Brian (Justine Arrington) Finney of San Diego, CA, and Derek Finney of Oak Lawn, IL; and two great-grandchildren, Tyler Schmidt and Kaylee Schmidt, both of Schaumburg, IL. He is also survived by numerous sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins, all of whom were dear to him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Dana Finney; one son-in-law, Dennis Reed; and one brother, Paul “Pete” Finney.
Jim was a proud 1945 graduate of Oblong Township High School. A hardworking man all his life, he spent 40 years behind the wheel as a truck driver for Refiner’s Transport in Robinson, retiring at the age of 57.
A man of faith and quiet strength, Jim was a member of White Oak Church. He also enjoyed classic cars, especially his beloved Model T Fords, and was an active member of both the Model T Ford Club of America and the Model T Ford Club International. Whether he was tinkering in the garage, attending a car show, or sharing stories from the road, Jim enjoyed life’s simple pleasures and the company of good friends. He also had a fondness for caring for animals. He took in and cared for many homeless cats, squirrels, rabbits, raccoons and possums over the years.
The family would like to thank all the staff at Robinson Rehab and Nursing, and at Transitions Hospice for their compassionate care during Jim’s final days.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 Saturday, October 11, 2025, at White Oak Church, north of Oblong, with Dee Wolfe officiating. Interment will follow in White Oak Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. to Noon on Saturday at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Oblong Schools Academic Foundation, P.O. Box 205, Oblong, IL 62449.
Pulliam Funeral Home, 302 E. Main St., Oblong, IL, is in charge of arrangements.
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