James "Jim" Phegley

James "Jim" Phegley, 78, of Rensselaer, Indiana, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on May 22, 1947, to Vernon and Constance Phegley, Jim grew up the youngest of nine children. His childhood in Rensselaer laid the foundation for a life marked by strong faith, deep family ties and a loving heart. On September 9, 1967, he married Kathy Whaley, and they were married almost 35 years until her passing in 2002. They had two children together, Jennifer and Chris. Out of his abiding love for Kathy, in 1998 he donated a kidney to her and as a result gave her 4 more years of quality life and was able to meet her first grandchild. Jim's career spanned over 3 decades working at Per Pak and its successor companies. His strong work ethic and attention to detail left a lasting effect. Jim was involved in The First Christian Church of Rensselaer and served on the board for many years. A proud and loving father and grandfather, Jim treasured time spent with family. He was known affectionately as "PawPaw" by his grandchildren. Jim had a great love for classic cars, IU basketball and spending time in his immaculate yard and garden. On October 25, 2014, Jim married Eileen (Gray) at The First Christian Church of Rensselaer. They spent many happy days together traveling to Key West, Las Vegas and North Carolina. They enjoyed a spirited marital battle arguing about IU and Purdue. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Eileen Phegley; his children, Jennifer (Jonathan) Randall, Christopher Adam Phegley, Patrick Dowds (who along with his mother was his primary caregiver), Corey (Cheri) Dowds, and Shannon Dowds; and his cherished grandchildren, Emma Randall, Nathan Randall, Sarah Randall, Madison Phegley, Nicholas Phegley, Callie Beaver, and Madden Beaver. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Kathy Phegley; his parents, Vernon and Constance; one brother and seven sisters. Graveside burial at Weston Cemetery Rensselaer, Indiana September 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. CT. Memorial Service to be held at 11:00 a.m. CT at The First Christian Church, 327 North Van Rensselaer Street, Rensselaer, Indiana.