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BORN
1959
DIED
2019
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James Earp Obituary
PEORIA - James R. Earp, 59, of Peoria passed away on Thursday, June 20, 2019, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
He was born on December 24, 1959, in Peoria to Wayne and Shirley Swanson Earp.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, David Earp.
He is survived by his nephews and niece, Jace Earp, Angie Earp, Brian Johnson; and devoted companion, Tracy Wolford.
A talented musician with both guitar and saxophone, Jimmy shared his talents as a member in many bands throughout the years in Peoria, and throughout the U.S. and Canada. A staple in the Peoria music scene, his passion for music and laughter served as an inspiration to many. Since opening Earp's Hideaway in 2000, Jimmy found a home base to share live music and provide a stage for other bands to share theirs. Jimmy's personality was larger than life, and his laughter contagious. His rowdy, animated story telling, and no holds barred manner of cracking jokes could quickly fill any room with laughter. He will be remembered for the fiercely loyal, loving and entertaining man that he was in life.
Cremation has been accorded. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2019, from 2 to 8 p.m. at Earp's Hideaway, and a memorial visitation will be held on Monday, July 1, 2019, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Abts Mortuary in Pekin, IL.
The Cremation Society of Mid-Illinois Co., Pekin/Peoria, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at csmico.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Earp
Sponsored by Abts Mortuary.
Kevin moss
November 19, 2024
I knew jim from trewyn, manual. He played aerosmith, led zep, etc on the stereo and i found a calling. Up until that point i thoght chicago was a rock band. He loved to laugh party girls etc. Ive lost so many friends that i no longer drink. Im very lucky to know the earp family. Rip dave and jin and pete and big wayne. Kevin moss, new york guitar player
A.K.
June 30, 2019
RIP jimmy
Darin Stone
June 30, 2019
Thanks for all the memories and all the mischief we got into together from childhood through adulthood. The big brother I never had. Until we meet again...Rest in peace... your cousin-
June 29, 2019
Rip jimmy. Sandy Teel
Kim Skaggs
June 29, 2019
RIP Jimmy,you will be truly missed.
Katherine Krulac
June 28, 2019
Rest in Peace. Play that beautiful sax in heaven for the Big Guy. Sad to see you go. You will not be forgotten.
Channel
June 27, 2019
Rest Peacefully dear Jimmy, You brought so many people happiness and laughter. I'll never forget the times we spent together... just being silly! You were loved by so many people. Love and Peace until we meet again. Love to your dear family.
Vickie Waldrop
June 27, 2019
Fly high and free my dear friend! You are greatly missed by many.... Until we are reunited in Heaven ❤
Mike Walraven
June 27, 2019
RIP Jim
Carol Mcelfresh ,Brining
June 26, 2019
My condolences to Jim family my prayers are with you all. I enjoy many years at Hideaway RIP Jim
Into the Heavens painted by Stormy Monday
Stormy Monday
June 26, 2019
Bambi Wabel
June 26, 2019
RIP my dear old friend. You will be greatly missed by all who new and loved you.
Brad Kempthorne
June 26, 2019
I had the opportunity to have Jimmy play for us at Hammers on numerous occasions. Such a talented, yet so likable as well. Considered him a friend,the music world as well as many of us that knew him will miss him and his personality.
June 26, 2019
in a world where you could be anything you wanted u where u thank you for being my friend u will be missed but never forgotten tracy love ya. Love nyla bricker
Jamie
June 26, 2019
Jimmy was an amazing man.......He will be missed by so many people ....Fly high my friend ...♡ ya
Nick Donald
June 26, 2019
I am sure you are already playing that Big harp in heaven Jim ! Rock on ! You will be missed by many !!
Lisa Tovrea
June 26, 2019
I am so sorry for your loss Tracy,Lisa,Jase,Angie& Brian. I hope he has found peace. You will be missed old friend. I bet you're already jammin with the greats up there! Give Dave a hug from me. We will meet again ❤
betty lundgren
June 26, 2019
so sorry as jimmy will be greatly missed
Holly shields
June 26, 2019
Jimmy was the coolest guy ,great to work for ,always a friend if need be and had a caring generous heart He will be sorely missed by all .My condolences to Tracy and family
June 26, 2019
A friend to many. You will be truly missed. RIP my friend until we meet again...
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