James “J.P.” Eli Prediger, 79, of Sparta, IL; born on August 16, 1935 in Lenzburg, IL; passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2015 at St. Louis University Hospital in St. Louis, MO.
Mr. Prediger was a coal miner and retired from Peabody Coal after 41 years. He was a member of the United Mine Workers of America. He was a member of The Potter’s House Christian Fellowship Church in Sparta, IL. In his younger years J.P. enjoyed traveling, camping and fishing. He also enjoyed the time that he spent at McDonalds with his “coffee friends.” J.P. was also affectionately known as everyone’s “candy grandpa.”
He was preceded in death by his parents – Oliver “Peggy” and Adelia, nee Hurshman, Prediger. Also preceded by two brothers.
He is survived by his loving wife Dixie, nee Heyl, Prediger whom he married on June 2, 1956 in Lenzburg, IL. His daughters – Leslie Jean Zoellner of Sparta, IL; Lisa Kay (Wade) Schultz of Odessa, TX; Leigh Ann (Terry) Haynes of Carbondale, IL. His granddaughters – Elisha (Jarrod) Birchler; Lindsey (Kyle) Kelley; Emarus (Phillip) Shay; Alysa Haynes; Eriel Wolters. Also survived by eight great-grandchildren. Two sisters – Roberta Sheridan of Millstadt, IL; Gloria (Robert) Woll of Sparta, IL.
Memorials may be made to the family.
Visitation: Friends may call at The Potter’s House Christian Fellowship Church in Sparta, IL on Friday, January 30, 2015 from 5:00pm to 9:00pm and on Saturday, January 31, 2015 from 10:00am to 1:00pm.
Funeral: Services will be held at The Potter’s Christian Fellowship Church in Sparta, IL on Saturday, January 31, 2015 at 1:00pm with Pastor Kevin Hannston officiating.
Thinking of you always. Remembering fun times with you at Auntie’s house and the wild car ride to the movies and back, it was raining and the car door flew open.
Posted by: Laura Hurshman – San Diego, CA – Cousin Jan 28, 2015
Dixie: We extend our deepest sympathy to you & your family. It was always so nice to see Jim & you at McDonald’s & talk about Lenzburg. Sincerely, Ruth Becker & Sondra Meyer
Posted by: Sondra Meyer – New Athens, IL Jan 29, 2015
Dixie & Family,
Sorry for your lose, but it’s heavens gain, J.P. always took time to chat with me on my walks going by your house. Friends are Friends forever. Jack
Posted by: Jack Vinson – Sparta, IL – friend Jan 29, 2015
Dixie, Leslie, Lisa and Leigh Ann, and all the family and friends: My thoughts and prayers are with all of you as you go through this very difficult time. May your wonderful memories provide comfort for you and God bless you all.
Posted by: Rita Hubbs – Hecker, IL Jan 29, 2015
A picture is worth a thousand words. This picture enbosses JP. We hold the good memories in our hearts. Love you all.
Posted by: Tommie & Tina – Sparta, IL – Friend Jan 29, 2015
Leslie, Lisa, and LeAnn,
I am so sorry about the passing of your dad. I remember him and your mom from when we were kids and played together. Both nice people. It’s tough losing a parent, no matter how old we are. I will be keeping all of you in my daily prayers. God’s peace.
Posted by: Cathy Sinn Flowers – Annandale, VA – Childhood friends with his daugh Jan 31, 2015
Dixie,Leslie,Lisa,Leigh Ann and family, I’m very sorry for your loss. J.P. Was quite a guy,and won’t be forgotten. Cherish time with friends and family. You’re In our thoughts and prayers.
Posted by: Randy Vinson – Shiloh, IL – Old Friend Jan 31, 2015
I acknowledge your loss, dear family. What a blessing for all of us to be assured that he is now absent from the flesh, & present with His Lord.Mr. Prediger was a great inspiration to me. I look forward to a heavenly reunion later.
Posted by: Pennie Nelson – Marion, IL Jan 31, 2015