James Phillip Herye

James Phillip “Jim” Herye, 70, of Arcola, IL, formerly of Decatur, IL passed away at 8:52 AM on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at Horizon Health in Paris, IL.

Celebration of life service will be held at a later date. The Edwards Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Jim was born on July 12, 1955 in Decatur, IL. He was the son of Julius Phillip and L. Wanda (Morrison) Herye. He married Deborah Mary Castor on March 3, 2000 in St. Charles, IL.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie Castor of Arcola, IL, three stepchildren, Sheila Castor and Nina Castor both of Monument, CO, and Brent Dehne of Portland, OR, 14 grandchildren, a niece Robyn Mathias of Louisville, KY, and Jerry Mathias of Decatur, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Thane Phillip Herye, and one sister, Shirley Dianne Mathias.

Throughout his career, Jim worked at various auto body shops in Decatur, IL, and at Gerber Auto Body in Downtown Chicago, IL. He dedicated his working life to the art he loved, eventually retiring at the age of 62.

Jim was an avid sports fan, particularly devoted to the Chicago Bears, and enjoyed sharing his enthusiasm with family and friends. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

Jim enjoyed painting cars, and in his younger years he enjoyed racing cars.