James F Wilcox Jr.

James F. Wilcox Jr., 86, of Utica, passed away Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at the LaSalle County Nursing Home.

A service with military honors will take place at the graveside in Ottawa Avenue Cemetery at a later date. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.

James was born July 13, 1938, in Ottawa, IL, to James and Magdalene (Heiss) Wilcox Sr.

Jim lived a colorful, vibrant, outgoing life. He was creative, smart, and wise beyond his years. He was always the person to give you the best advice as he was incredibly knowledgeable. He could come across as unfiltered but always had the kindest heart. He and Louise owned Stonehead Leather in Utica and that's where he got his nickname, Stoney. When he wasn't working, he enjoyed gardening and reading. It wasn't uncommon for him to read multiple books at a time and read at least one a day. He was always an entrepreneur, most recently selling fly swatters to the nursing home residents. He was a proud Navy veteran; a loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather; and a friend to many.

He is survived by his lifelong friend, Louise Ricci; his son, James (Gina) Wilcox III; his grandchildren, Nicole (Sean) Tompkins, Jessica (Joe) Centeno, James (Kathryn) Wilcox, and Michelle (Brian) Kohn; 5 great grandchildren; and his siblings, Carol Grottkau and Marian (Dale) Dondelinger.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Magdalene; his son, Matthew Wilcox; and his siblings, Susan Gribble, Thomas Wilcox, and Robert Wilcox.

Memorials may be directed to a charity of the donor's choosing.