James Dean Edwards

James Dean Edwards, 86, of Springfield, passed away at Memorial Medical Center on April 27, 2026. He was born on March 14, 1940, in Decatur, IL to Glenn and Viola James Edwards. He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard, in 2022; and Diane, his wife of 60 years, in 2023.

Jim was a 1958 graduate of Decatur High School. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Millikin University in 1962, and later his Master of Arts in Communication from Sangamon State University. He spent his career teaching art in District 186, four and a half years as a travelling elementary school teacher, and 27 years at Springfield High School where he was also the art club advisor, yearbook advisor, and for a short time, the girls’ varsity tennis coach.

After his retirement, Jim was a fixture in the local art community working with the Springfield Art Association, the Hoogland Center for the Arts, and the Illinois State Fair. He and Diane were members of multiple social and philanthropic organizations including Springfield Area Arts Council, Jazz Society, and gourmet and dance clubs. They also volunteered for downtown festivals and other events.

Jim participated in the creation of numerous murals around Springfield and also illustrated several children's books.

Jim and Diane joined First Christian Church of Springfield in 1963, where Jim served as a deacon and a church van driver.

With Diane, he enjoyed travel, art exhibits, cooking, music performances, theater, and reading

Jim was the loving father of Jill (Kent) Bragg, Jennifer (Aaron) Kaufman, and Josh (Kathy Stokosa) Edwards; and “Post” to granddaughters, Mackenzie (Gary) Nutt, Hannah Kaufman, Emma Kaufman, Madison (Nick) Fjelstul, and Mallory Bragg; great-granddaughters, Scottie and Noah Nutt; and great-grandson, Campbell Nutt.

The family will host a celebration of life which will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Springfield Art Association, 700 N. 4th Street, Springfield, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials honoring Jim may be made to Springfield Area Arts Council, 420 S. 6th Street, Springfield, IL 62701, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. 4th Street, Springfield, IL 62702, or First Christian Church, 700 S. 6th Street, Springfield, IL 62703.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.

Please visit www.butlerspringfield.com to offer your condolences.