James Sexton

James (Jim) Sexton, 61, of Sandwich, Illinois passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, IL, surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be Saturday, March 28 from 9:00am to 11:00am at Ottawa Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will take place following the visitation at 11:30am at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Ottawa, with Msgr. Mark Merdian officiating. Burial will be in St. Columba Cemetery following the mass.

Jim was born August 27, 1964 in Ottawa to Gerald (Jerry) and Mary Rygh Sexton. He graduated from Ottawa High School in 1982 and attended IVCC. Jim was a union carpenter with Carpenters Local 1889 working with Denk & Roche Builders.

Jim was always working or helping someone else who needed a hand. He was very capable and enjoyed repairing and updating older vehicles. Riding his dirt bike with his son, Sean, was a special time for Jim. He loved his family. Jim was a donor to Gift of Hope, an Organ and Tissue Donor Network.

He is survived by his son, Sean (Hailey) and granddaughter Ivy Mae; his parents, Jerry and Mary Sexton; his brother, Michael (Margaret) Sexton; his nieces, Erin (Aaron) Lorch and Mary (Ari) Sapinsley.

Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children Research Hospital or the donor's choice.