He was born on September 17, 1932, the son of Robert and Hazel (Butler) Poling in Elkhart County Indiana.
Jim served in the United States Air Force at the Chanute Air Base in Rantoul, IL from 1952-1956. While serving there, he attended the Church of the Nazarene where he met his bride-to-be. He married Carol (Grider) Poling on March 23, 1956.
Mr. Poling graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree of Bachelor of Science in Education. In addition to his bachelor’s degree, he furthered his studies earning a Master of Natural Science degree at the University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK. He taught at Washington Middle School in Springfield, IL and Manlius School District, Manlius, IL In addition to teaching math and science, he also coached junior high football, and track and field. After retiring from his teaching career of 24 years, he was employed by Illinois State University, Normal, for 9 years.
Survivors are his wife, Carol of 66 years, Normal; 2 sons, Jim (Deb) Poling, Traverse City, MI, Jeff Poling, Normal; 1 daughter, Cindy (John) Barker, Cedar Falls, IA; 3 grandsons, 4 granddaughters, 19 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews
and their families.
He was preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers, 5 sisters, and 1 great-granddaughter.
He was an active member of Grace Church of the Nazarene, Bloomington, for 32 years, and served on the church board, sang in the choir, and taught the adult Sunday School class. He
received the Distinguished Service Award in 1987 from the Global Church of the Nazarene for outstanding service for the Lord and his church. He enjoyed spending time with his family, camping, gardening, and being outside enjoying God’s creation.
A public visitation will be held at East Lawn Funeral Home on Friday, April 8, 2022 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm. A funeral service will be held at 12:00 pm, officiated by the Rev. Leah R. Barker, granddaughter, and the Rev. Mike Stipp. Military honors and burial will follow services at East Lawn Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given to Grace Church of the Nazarene, 610 I.A.A. Drive,
Bloomington, IL 61701.
