James L. Marks

James L. Marks, 85, of Rockford, IL, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 4, 1940, in Carthage, AR, James was the son of Marvin and Ella (Alexander) Marks. On December 17, 1960, he married his sweetheart, Shirley Johnson, in Freeport, IL; a devoted partnership that spanned 65 beautiful years.

Life & Work

James began his career at Piggly Wiggly before joining Eagle's Foods, where he proudly served as store manager for 33 years. He also operated a charter bus business for several years and was well known as an active and talented handyman who was always willing to lend a helping hand to family, friends, and neighbors.

Life of Ministry

James earned his Bachelor’s Degree of Divinity in 1967, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to ministry. He began serving at St. Paul COGIC in Rockford, IL, where he also led the Youth Department. He was later assigned to a pastoral position in Elgin, IL, and went on to faithfully pastor Bethesda COGIC for 42 years.

He played a central role in building Bethesda’s current church structure and served as general contractor for the construction of Progressive Baptist Church, using his gifts to support and strengthen the spiritual life of the community. As a pastor, James welcomed everyone with warmth and sincerity. He shared the teachings of Christ with compassion and gentleness, never overwhelming or pressuring others, but guiding them with patience, understanding, and genuine love. He extended his ministry beyond the church walls, serving as chaplain for both the Rockford Police Department and Hospice Care of America, offering comfort and support to countless individuals during life’s most challenging moments.

Community Leadership

James was a strong advocate for youth and was proud to serve on the board that helped build the Boys and Girls Club in Elgin, IL. He believed deeply in creating safe, uplifting spaces where children could learn, grow, and enjoy meaningful activities. His commitment to community improvement was evident in his involvement in numerous local projects and development initiatives—always aimed at strengthening families and building a better future.

Hobbies & Interests

In his personal life, James enjoyed fishing, swimming, and playing basketball. These activities brought him joy, kept him active, and allowed him to share meaningful times with those he loved.

Family

James is deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by his wife, Shirley; his children, Eldwin (Debra) Marks, Michael (Kathy) Marks, and Erica (Pharris) Baker; his grandchildren, Jonathan Marks, Nicole Fitzgerald-Marks, Laken (Robbie) Sisson, Kaitlin (Max) Garibaldi, and Zander Baker; his great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Gloria Breedlove and Queenester (James) Reynolds. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, brothers- and sisters-in-law, and many cherished godchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandchildren, Eldwin Marks II and Kayana Marks-Narcisse; his brother, Marvin Marks, Jr.; and his sister, Lavonne Barbary.

Service Information

Memorial services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on March 21, 2026, at Bethesda COGIC, 454 Hickory Place, Elgin, IL 60120. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. and continue until the time of service.

Friends and loved ones are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of a life lived with purpose, faith, and extraordinary love for others.