James W. Penrod, 57, of Fairfield, passed away at 5:59pm on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital.

Jim was born on April 8, 1968, in Howell, Michigan, to Vera (Thompson) and Tom Smith. On April 6, 2013, he married the love of his life, Erica (Moore) Penrod.

Jim was a devoted son, father, husband, and grandpa. He was a man of deep faith. Jim was an active member of the Wesleyan Church of Fairfield where he shared in various ministries over the years. He volunteered his time in helping fight fires in McLeansboro for 15 years, prior to moving to Fairfield. He lived out the teaching of Christ daily, offering encouragement, lending a helping hand and walking humbly with God.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice knowing that he is now in the presence of his Savior, hearing the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." His life was a testament to love, servitude and enduring faith.

Survivors include his mother Vera (Tom) Smith of McLeansboro, IL, his wife Erica Penrod and son Josh Penrod both of Fairfield, three daughters Laura (Tom) Wankum of St. Louis, MO, Sarah (Zac) Normansell of Dupo, IL, and Anne Marie Anderson (Gabe Robbins) of Fairfield, five grandchildren Capriyel Wankum, Delezar Wankum, Kayden Robbins, Mason Robbins, and Liam Aldridge, his brother Louis Penrod of South Dakota, along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Millage and Edith Thompson and Aaron and Margaret Smith.

Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Friday, September 19th, at the Fairfield Wesleyan Church with burial to follow in Maple Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11am until the time of service at the church. Memorial donations can be made to the Fairfield Wesleyan Church or 8 Days of Hope and will be accepted at the funeral service or at the Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.

8 Days of Hope
PO Box 3208, Tupelo MS 38803
Tel: 1-662-844-6934

Wesleyan Church of Fairfield
960 US Hwy 45, Fairfield IL 62837
Tel: 1-618-842-2418