Jimmy Lee "Jim" Utley Jr.

Jim Utley, 63, of Dixon, IL, passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at OSF Saint Katharine Medical Center, in Dixon. He worked for the Illinois Department of Corrections for 25 years, retiring as Assistant Warden.
Jim was born on December 15, 1961, in Dayton, OH, the son of Jimmy Lee and Diane (Bechtold) Utley, Sr. He married Jessica M. Becker on May 10, 2003. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1980 to 1984, with tours in Beirut and Grenada. He was honorably discharged as a Sergeant. Jim began his Illinois Department of Corrections career in 1984 at Dixon Correctional Center as an officer, promoting through the ranks before retiring in 2013. He worked as a Superintendent at Joliet Correctional Center, and as Assistant Warden at IYC St. Charles, Sheridan Correctional Center, and Dixon Correctional Center. Jim began volunteering at the Dixon VFW Post 540, serving on the Executive Board in various positions before being elected Commander in 2023. Jim was a lifelong Chicago Bears and White Sox fan. He was colorfully vocal about the last few seasons of both teams, although he never wavered in his support.
Jim is survived by his wife, Jessica M. Becker-Utley; daughter, Erica (Utley) and Brent Allen; daughter, Rachel (Utley) and Zack Jones; son, Kevin; sister, Sue (Thompson) and Dale Price; grandsons, Carter and Eli Jones; nephews, Tyler and Trace Carlson, and Alex Price.
Jim was preceded in death by his father, Jimmy Utley, Sr.; mother, Diane (Bechtold) Thompson; stepfather, Charles Thompson; and sister, Jill (Utley) Carlson.
Private Services will be held and Cremation Rites have been accorded, per Jim's wishes. The family extends invitations to all to join them for a Celebration of Jim's Life from 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at the Dixon VFW Post 540. Chicago Bears, Chicago White Sox, and military branch apparel is encouraged. Chicago Cubs fans are tolerated; however, Green Bay Packers fans may attend at their own risk.
Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and/or The Semper Fi Fund.
Arrangements were completed by Preston-Schilling Funeral Home in Dixon.
Condolences may be sent to www.prestonschilling.com. To send flowers to the family of Jimmy "Jim", please visit our floral store.