James McHugh

James E. McHugh

Age 65 of Wilmington passed away Thursday November 3, 2016 at home.

Born August 10, 1951 in Joliet, James Edwin was a son of Edwin and Kathryn Kelly-McHugh. He was raised and educated in Shorewood, and graduated from Joliet West High School with the Class of 1969. James was a member of Saint Rose Catholic Church, and was a big Chicago sports fan, especially the White Sox, Bulls and Bears. He had a true appreciation of nature, and enjoyed spending time at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, as well as camping and fishing.

Survivors include his partner of 21 years: Vernette Thomas of Wilmington; three children: Jacqueline Geiss of Joliet, Melissa (Everett) McHugh-Hudnall of Louisville, Kentucky and Patrick (Christina Butler) McHugh of Corbin, Kentucky; three step children: Jennifer Dezee of Florida, Heather Dezee of Indiana and Jackie (Will Vanderwall) Dezee of Minooka; one sister: Michelle (Ray) Rowe of Shorewood, and numerous cousins.

James was preceded in death by his parents; brother: Dan McHugh, aunt: Mary "Aunt Babe" Flink, and numerous other aunts, uncles and cousins.

Flameless cremation rites are being accorded, and visitation and video tribute will be Thursday November 10, 2016 from 4:00 p.m. until time of memorial service, 7:00 p.m., at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road, in Wilmington. A private family inurnment will be held at Woodlawn Memorial Park II in Joliet.

Preferred memorials may be made in James’ memory to Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie.

Family and friends may sign the online guest book, upload photographs, or share James’ memorial page by logging onto: www.BaskervilleFuneral.com

Flameless cremation arrangements and memorial services are under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington 815-476-2181.