James Roy Mcnair

James Roy McNair, 85, of Palestine, IL, left us on Tuesday, February 22, 2022, of a heart attack. He died suddenly and quickly with the arms of his much-loved wife around him.

James was born on July 25, 1936, the son of Herman E & Reatha (Baker) McNair, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his granddaughter, Carrie Louise Shull.

He leaves behind his wife of 64 years, Myrna (Climer) McNair, son & daughter-in-law, Jim & Bonnie McNair (Terre Haute, IN); daughter & son-in-law, Lola & Gene Shull (Cedar Rapids, IA); his granddaughter and her husband, Katie & Brian Dickerson (Roselle, IL); grandson, Simon James McNair (Terre Haute, IN); brothers & sister-in-law, Fred & Maggie McNair and Carl McNair; as well as four nephews and a niece.

Jim attended the First United Methodist Church of Palestine for many years. He was also a standing member of the Palestine Eagles, Robinson Elks, Palestine Masonic Lodge, and the American Legion.

Jim graduated from Palestine High School in 1954. He was a star basketball player and led his team to many wins and titles. He worked briefly at Musgrave's Automotive and CIPS before marrying his high school sweetheart. Jim married Myrna Climer on August 4, 1957, and began a grand adventure of good times, hard times, family, love, and laughter that lasted almost 65 years.

Jim joined the U.S. Air Force and proudly served for eight years. When Jim & Myrna returned to Palestine in 1964, Jim would work for the Illinois Central Railroad for several years. He would then go on to work for Marathon Oil Company for 27 years until retiring.


Family was the focus of Jim's life. He and Myrna would load the kids up in the car and take off for California, Washington DC, Gulf Shores, AL, and other adventures. He loved to travel and cruise, especially with his family. Some of his ports of call were the Panama Canal, Hawaii, Alaska, Mexico, assorted Caribbean islands, and the British Isles. He loved to spend Thanksgiving in Orange Beach, AL, with any family members that could join him. He was happiest when surrounded by his family, making new memories. He instilled in his family a love of travel and cruising and that doing it together was the best way to do so.

Jim was an original season ticket holder to the Indianapolis Colts. Sundays in the fall would find him either at the game or watching it closely on television. One of Jim's greatest trips was to Super Bowl XLI. He and Myrna joyfully watched their beloved Colts beat the Bears in Miami.

Jim's absence leaves a massive hole in the hearts of all he knew and loved. The family appreciates so much the kind thoughts and words of everyone.

A time of visitation will be held from 12:00- 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 26th, at Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. Funeral services will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Mitch Ramey officiating. Burial will be in the Oak Grove Cemetery, where military rites will be accorded by the combined units of the Robinson V.F.W. Post #4549, the Robinson American Legion Post #69, and the Flat Rock American Legion Post #132. Memorial contributions may be made to "Palestine First United Methodist Church", with envelopes available at the funeral home.