James Alexander D'Agay

James (Jim) DeGiraud D'Agay, age 64, passed away peacefully at his home in Villa Park on Saturday August 9th. As a young boy growing up in Worth IL, he was the third of four children, especially close to his older sister Ellie. He was part of a large extended family and spent significant time at his Aunt Edie and Uncle John's home with his Gramma Millar and cousins Laura, John and Jean. He liked learning but not going to school, riding his bike around town and drawing. As he got older, he became interested in cars and started learning about them by working in the garage with his uncle John and father Hank. In his mid 20's, he faced a serious health crisis which he fought head-on like he did many of the challenges in his life…and he beat it. He was healthy again and just in time to meet his "beautiful bride" Veronica (Roni) who was the love of his life for over 33 years. He spent his years with Roni working hard, taking occasional vacations, renovating their home, and loving up on his fur babies. He took pride in his yard and enjoyed growing vegetables, much like his dad Hank. He also achieved a major professional goal of opening a successful automotive business. Later he would start restoring classic cars where he seemed to enjoy the hunt for the perfect vehicle almost as much as the restoration process. He travelled the U.S. finding classic cars and loved to share stories about the places he traveled to and the people he met. In his last job, he was a troubleshooter who resolved issues for major automotive manufacturers where he used the impressive knowledge base and skill set he had developed over his long career. He was an innovative thinker, handcrafting one of a kind tools that were more efficient than standard tools. Just as important as the skill set and work ethic he brought to work every day were the personal relationships he developed with so many of his coworkers. Jim was always there with a smile, willing to help and support others, both professionally and personally. He wasn't afraid to speak up about things he believed in and about issues that mattered to him and his coworkers. During his life, he befriended many people that became part of his family. He is survived by many close family and friends and will be greatly missed.

Visitation Sunday, August 17, 2025, 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM, with a service at 5:00 PM, at Knollcrest, 1500 S. Meyers Road, Lombard, IL 60148. Interment Private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Funeral info: (630) 932-1500.