James Ernest Swartz

James Ernest Swartz, 87, of Metamora, IL, passed away on the morning of Sunday, January 11, 2026 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, IL.

He was born on July 6, 1938, in Pontiac, IL, to John Samuel and Esther L. (Nelson) Swartz. He married Janet M. Tyson on May 27, 1960 in Pontiac, IL. They moved to Metamora in 1966.

Surviving are his loving wife of 65 years, Jan of Metamora; daughter, Deborah Campbell of Dunlap, IL; son, Michael (Lisa) Swartz of Normal, IL; grandchildren, Mark (Madi Moody) Swartz, John Swartz, Carrie (fiancé Edin Sehic) Swartz, Ian Campbell, Tyson (Mia) Campbell, and Skylar Campbell; sister, Lora Ann Schultz of Normal, IL; sister-in-law, Janet Swartz of Pontiac, IL, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his brother, Gene Swartz.

Jim was a U.S. Army Reserves veteran. He was stationed at Ft. Riley, Kansas, serving during the Berlin Conflict. He was a pressman for Edward Hine Printing Company in Peoria for 37 years. During his lifetime he enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, working with stained glass, woodcarving and spending winters in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Jim loved his family very much and so enjoyed time spent together, and the close bond spent fishing with Mike. He also loved spending time with his friends, whether it be over coffee, a meal or playing cards. Faith played an important role in Jim’s life, and he was very grateful for the fellowship he shared with his church family, and for the ministry of Pastor Gary Salm of Christian Union Church.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 19, 2026 at Christian Union Church with Pastor Gary Salm officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until service time, also at the church on Monday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Christian Union Church, 925 West Walnut Street, Metamora, IL 61548 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

DONATIONS:

Christian Union Church, 925 West Walnut Street, Metamora, IL 61548

Charity of the Donor's Choice