James R. Layher

James "Jim" Layher, 81, passed away surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, devotion and quiet strength. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Jim was known to many as the "Gentle Giant"-a reflection of his calm presence, generous heart, and steady reassurance.

Jim was the devoted husband of Bonnie Layher, with whom he shared 55 wonderful years of marriage. Together they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and family. He was a loving father to Lisa White (Chris White) and Emily Rafferty (Brad Rafferty), and a proud and adoring grandfather to Finnegan (13) and Maeve (10) White, and Brayden (8) and Harper (6) Rafferty, as well as his cherished "puppy grandchildren," Zelda and Lucy.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Irene Jennings Layher, and his brother, John Layher (Rose). He was a loving Uncle to Dr. John W Layher Jr. (Rose), Vickie Carrier, and Michael Layher (Shonna).

Born and raised in Terre Haute, Indiana, Jim attended Indiana State University and later graduated from Elmhurst College. He spent 53 years living in Wheaton, Illinois, before he and Bonnie recently moved to Oak Park to be closer to their daughters.

Jim's professional life reflected both innovation and an unmatched work ethic. He began his career in retail sporting goods, setting up displays for K-Mart-where he met Bonnie, who was working in the back office at the time. He later joined SportMart, helping open new stores throughout the Midwest. Jim went on to drive innovation in the coupon manufacturing business at Quaker and other organizations, earning multiple awards for his creativity and design. Even in retirement, Jim continued working at Home Depot and other jobs until COVID, when he officially retired-though his energy and curiosity never truly slowed.

Despite his professional success, Jim always put his family first. Whether staying up late to help finish a science project or practicing catch in the front yard after a long day at work, his daughters always knew they were his top priority.

Jim enjoyed playing bridge, golf, poker, traveling, and celebrating life with Bonnie and his close circle of friends affectionately known as the "Briarcliffe" crew. He loved Chicago sports-the Bulls, Da Bears, and Cubs-doing puzzles, fishing, scratch-off lotto tickets, slot machines, reading mystery and crime novels, and playing chess (especially with his grandchildren).

His happy place was the beaches of Mexico, particularly Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach in Cabo, where often vacationed with his family, spending time walking the shoreline and searching for shells or sitting poolside with a Banana Daiquiri in hand.

Jim was known for his subtle sense of humor; even in the hardest moments, he could find a way to make someone smile or laugh. More than anything, Jim loved his family and took great joy in bragging about his daughters and spending every possible moment with his grandchildren.

As an alternative to flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.