He was born on February 22, 1941, in Springfield, IL, the son of James and Stella (Mazrim) McIntyre. He married Peggy McGinnis on May 8, 1987, in Springfield.
James was a proud graduate of Lanphier High School, Class of 1959. He was a member of St. Katherine Drexel (Sacred Heart) in Springfield, Illinois, where he was a devoted member. James dedicated 23 years of service to the Department of Public Works before retiring in 2003.
In his free time, James enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, including hunting, fishing, and gardening. He also loved the music of the 50s and 60s, especially the songs of Johnny Cash. He loved watching EWTN and Andy Griffith shows. These hobbies and musical favorites were a meaningful part of who he was and the life he enjoyed. James was always watching out for his neighbors and community.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Stella; son, James R. McIntyre III, and granddaughter, Jacinta Mitchell.
James is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy; daughters, Angela (McIntyre) Fernandez, Regina McIntyre, and Shelley McGinnis, and was “Pops” to Michael McIntyre. He also leaves behind his “Best Granddaughter”, Cassie (Robert) Sokolis; grandson, Jacob (Mary) Rotherham; great-grandchildren, Izabelle, Noah, James, Fayth, Ezra, and Liam, all whom he treasured watching grow over the years; and several other grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Visitation and Mass of Christian Burial: The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703, beginning with a prayer service at 5:05 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Sacred Heart Church, 722 S. 12th St., Springfield, IL 62703 with Rev. Jim Isaacson officiating.
Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Springfield, IL.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Church, 722 S. 12th St. Springfield, IL 62703.
Please visit www.butlerspringfield.com to offer condolences.
