Jim W. Ankrom, 74, of Jacksonville, IL died Saturday, Apr. 15, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born Jan. 11, 1949, in Jacksonville, the son of Ernest J. and Doloris Dews Ankrom. He married Jean Elliott on May 3, 1980, in Jacksonville and she survives. He is also survived by his mother, Doloris Lumpkins of Jacksonville; four daughters, Lesley (Steve) Newsome of Springfield, Laura Seabrooke of Dayton, OH, and Katelyn (Jammey) Huff and Emily (Josh) Ankrom, both of Jacksonville; eleven grandchildren, Maddie, P.J., Alivia, Bella, Annalise, Jaxon, Elijah, Miles, Hannah, Zayne, and Nicholas; and three brothers and one sister, Reg (Jane) Ankrom of Quincy, Kik (Carolyn) Ankrom of Benton, Mick (Janet) Ankrom of South Carolina, and Deb (Bob) Jones of Temple, TX. He was preceded in death by his father; and two brothers, Keith Lumpkins and Mark Lumpkins. Jim was a 1967 graduate of Jacksonville High School and was then drafted into the U.S. Army. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War serving with the 1st Infantry Division as a track mechanic. He earned the Bronze Star, the Army Commendation Medal, the Air Medal, and a Purple Heart. While in Vietnam, he was exposed to Agent Orange. After returning from the service, he worked and then retired from GTE. He was a member of the American Legion Post #279 and had been active with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Jim had also been an advocate for other veterans and their families. He enjoyed fishing, riding his Harley, and was meticulous about his home, yard, and pool. Jim would drop anything to help anyone. He was also an amazing artist, particularly stained glass and drawing. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Perry Case and First Christian Church for helping Jim reconnect to his faith. The family will host an informal Celebration of Life gathering from 5 - 7 pm Friday, June 2, 2023, at Bahan's Tavern in Jacksonville. Memorials are suggested to Deceased, Disabled, and MIA-POA Veterans' Dependents Scholarship Fund. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is assisting the family. Condolences may be left at buchanancody.com. .