James K. Mahan

With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of James K. Mahan, a kind and generous soul whose compassion touched everyone he met. He departed this world on Friday, November 14, 2025.

Known to his loved ones as Jim. A retired Reverend, Jim devoted his life to faith, service, and community. His sermons were known not only for their wisdom, but for the quiet strength, genuine warmth and more than often humorous touch with which he delivered them. His calling to serve extended far beyond the church walls, he spent years as a dedicated firehouse chaplain, offering comfort, courage, and spiritual guidance to those who ran toward danger when others ran away. He also served honorably as a police commissioner, leading with fairness, humility, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

To his family, he was nothing short of extraordinary. A loving father to his daughter Judith and to the many others he adopted along the way. Jim led by example, teaching patience, compassion, and integrity not through words alone, but through everyday actions. As a husband, he was steadfast and devoted. An incredible partner whose love was a constant source of strength and joy.

Those who knew him will remember his warm smile, his listening ear, his hearty laughter and the ways he lifted others up. His legacy is one of service, faith, and deep, abiding love for the people in his life.

He is survived by his wife Robin A Mahan, daughter Judith C. Mahan, son-in-law Jonathan Lopez and sister Julie Powell. Also by his many children and grandchildren by heart (Elizabeth, Kelsey, Tania, Alan, Sarah, Andrea, Jilito Grandkids: Madison, David, Sam and Quinn, Benji, Noah, Kalijah and Reason).

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church in Virginia, Illinois where all who were touched by his kindness are welcome to gather and honor his memory. Visitation is at the church starting at 10 A.M. followed immediately by the memorial service. Memorials are suggested to the First Presbyterian Church or to Dove, Inc. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Virginia is assisting the family. Condolences may be left at buchanancody.com.

May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace and may his life be a reminder to spread grace where it's needed most.