James T. Epperson

James Thomas Epperson, age 86, passed away at Advocate Condell Hospital, Libertyville, IL on February 7, 2021. Born in Hustonville, KY, he moved with his family to Illinois when he was in the 3rd grade. He attended Whittier Elementary School and graduated as class Vice-Pres, from WTSH in Waukegan in 1953.

An athlete and sports enthusiast, Jim excelled in track and field, basketball and football in high school and played college football at the University of Denver. After graduating in 1959, he served 2 years in the US Army. When he returned to IL, he taught school in District 60 for 5 years and in 1966 he became the District Special Services Officer at Great Lakes Naval Training Center. In 1970 he joined Allstate Insurance Co. as a Human Resources Manager retiring in 1994.

Jim was a member of Trinity AME Church in Waukegan for over 50 years, and was active in many groups there, as well as the community including the Genesee YMCA. He played basketball for Dr. Eugene King and Posner’s Men’s Clothing Store, and was a member of the Unicorns Men’s Club. He enjoyed traveling with his wife and children, especially to Medicine Lake and Door County in WI and to other countries and states.

Jim married his college sweetheart, Joyce Anne Roberts on Sept. 19, 1959 and they enjoyed over 61 years together. He is survived by his wife, sons, Eric (Dina) Epperson and Kurt Epperson, grandchildren, Hillary (Chas) Epperson Stewart, Morgan Elisabeth, namesake, James (Rachel) Epperson and Evan Epperson, former daughter-in-law, Lisa May, special cousin, Gloria Lewis, several great nieces, and a host of friends and relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph F. and Gertrude H. Epperson, his sister Ruth Hudson and her children, special cousin George Lewis, several aunts, uncles and other relatives.

In accordance with his wishes, Jim will be cremated, interment will be private, and due to the pandemic, there will be no service at this time. Donations in his memory may be made to the American Heart Association, The National Kidney Foundation or charity of your choice. Final arrangements were entrusted to Marsh Funeral Home, Gurnee, IL.

The family is deeply grateful to all of the medical professionals who took care of him.

Please sign the guest book at www.dignitymemorial.com.