James Jerome Paul, 83, of Stratford, OK (Formally Freeport, IL), passed away on March 23, 2025, after years of medical issues.
Jim was born on January 24, 1942, to Harry Paul & Arvilla La Bar in Lena IL. Jim attended school and worked on the family farm. He went on to Join the US Army in August of 1969. He was sent to Ft. Leonard Wood, MO. and he was later discharged for a Medical Injury. Jim has 13 siblings Harry Jr., Robert, Shirley, Richard, Jo Ann, Wesley, Patty Ann, Thomas, Charles, William, Rickey, Randall & David.

James was preceded in Death by his Parents, Harry & Arvilla. His siblings Junior, Bob, Dick, Shirley, Tom, Jo Ann Charlie, Bill & Rick.

James is survived by his partner of 40 years, Cindy Phillips. His siblings are Wesley Paul, Randy Paul, David Paul, and Patty Ann Davis. His 3 daughters, Lisa Ludwig (Dale), Julie Milliken (Mike), and Jamie Jacobson (John). His 14 Grandchildren, Matthew Ludwig, Christopher Ludwig, Andrew Ludwig (McKayla), Aaron Ludwig, Nathaniel Ludwig (Savannah), Marissa Holman (Thomas), Luke Milliken (Salome), Logan Milliken, Grady Milliken, Carter Koura-Milliken, Evan Milliken, Alyssa Jacobson, Tara Jacobson & Ashley Jacobson. 8 Great Grand Children, Cayden, Bentley, Riley, Weston, Blake, Sophia, Landon & Liam.

Jim (Bidgie) a nickname given to him by his siblings (Jimmy +Bitchy), was convinced he was the favorite child. Jim was a tinkerer of engines, and he enjoyed working on cars, trucks, tractors, and small engines. He loved his Bluegrass country music, his coffee, goulash, and his cats.
Jim liked to garden, play cards, fish & ride his tractors. He had an obsession with AS Seen on TV gadgets but often would return what he purchased! Jim was a good communicator; he would start letting you know what he wanted for Christmas in July! He had a little sparkle in his eye like he knew something you didn't or was up to no good. He was kind, generous, humorous, and sassy. He was likable, light-hearted, sarcastic, and always ready to make you laugh. Jim (Bidgie) will be missed by many and remembered by all.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday June 28, 2025, from 11 AM - 3 PM, at the Orangeville Village Hall, 301 S. East St, in Orangeville, IL

"Love you bigger than the sky and all the way to Heaven"