James Laverle Newlin

James Laverle Newlin, lovingly known as "Jim" (or, as his father preferred, "Jimmy"), passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in rural Flat Rock, IL, on June 7, 2023, at the age of 77. Jim was born in Mattoon, IL on August 17, 1945, one of eight children born to Ova & Ruth (Osborn) Newlin. His adolescent years found him and his family moving from Los Angeles, CA, to Bakersfield, CA, to Phoenix, AZ, before finally moving back to Illinois and setting roots for good. Here, he fell in love with and soon married the (literal) girl-next-door, Marilyn Elaine Simmers, on January 4, 1964. This union brought three beloved children into the world: John, Shelly, and Rita.

Jim was Union-proud and worked as a laborer, insulator, boilermaker, and iron worker for over 30 years. So committed was he to the Union that he served one term as Business Agent for Labor Local #1280 before (correctly) deciding that his brother was better suited for the position! But as much as he enjoyed his work, it was evident that he loved music more. After all, Jim grew up in a musically-gifted family that gathered every weekend to play songs, sing, and dance. Not only did these provide him with beautiful memories to cherish, but these gatherings formed him into the capable and competent musician he would become. By the age of 15, Jim was playing in honky tonks and bars with his dad, sister Patty, and brother Podge. He was one of those rare souls who could pick up any instrument and make it sing, be that a guitar, banjo, ukulele, harmonica, or piano. He also enjoyed singing, and if you were ever fortunate enough to hear his rendition of "The Wabash Cannonball", you will likely remember his infamous train whistle!

Though he was also an avid hunter and fisherman, much of his free time was spent building something, from crafting pie safes as Christmas gifts to constructing his own homes and helping his son John build his residence. Jim's resourcefulness and creativity were matched only by his tendency to over-use glue and his lovable habit of running late for everything! His family could each attest to his casual relationship with time, as well as his dislike of change, particularly when it came to technology. His aversion to modern living led Jim to find contentment in life's simpler pleasures, like tinkering in his garage, spending time with loved ones at family gatherings, or telling a good joke to bring smiles to everyone around him.

As we reflect on the life of Jim Newlin, it is essential to remember the joy he brought to others, his unwavering dedication to his work and family, and the lasting impact he leaves upon those blessed to have known him. As we carry his legacy forward, may we always remember to love deeply, laugh often, and live present to every moment, especially those spent with those we love, just like Jim did.

He is survived by his son & daughter-in-law, John & DeEtta Newlin (Hutsonville, IL); his daughter & son-in-law, Rita & Danny Nethery (Robinson, IL); his son-in-law, Louie Myers (Trimble, IL); his grandchildren, Dusty Nethery & his significant other, Ryann Chiddix, Tanner & wife Brittany Nethery, Brent "BW" Powell, Mackenzie & husband Tyler Moore, and Johnny & wife Marissa Newlin; his great-grandchildren, Walker Nethery, Monroe Nethery, Pyke Nethery, Oakley, and Hentley Nethery; by his brother & sister-in-law, Podge & Linda Newlin (Robinson, IL); as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, Marilyn Newlin; by his parents, Ova & Ruth Newlin; by two brothers, Gary Newlin and Johnny Newlin; by four sisters, Esther Kemper, Patty Pethtel, Carolyn Dennis, and Virginia York; and by his daughter, Shelly Myers.

A time of visitation will be held from 12:00-2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 16th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will immediately follow and be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. During the service, family and friends will have the opportunity to publicly share some of their favorite memories of Jim and reflect on the fullness of his life. Burial will be in the Hardinville Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to his memorial fund, with checks made payable to "Goodwine Funeral Homes". Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.