James Frederick Staff

James Frederick Staff

James F. Staff, 93, of Vandalia, IL passed away January 31, 2023, having enjoyed a long life full of family, friends and community. Jim was born in rural Vandalia on October 8, 1929, son of Edna (Funk) and Floyd F. Staff. Early years of growing up in Vera with his brothers, Floyd Gene and Beeb, provided unique experiences and great story telling.

Jim graduated from Vandalia Community High School in 1948 and Greenville College in 1952. He went on to receive his Master’s degree from University of Illinois in 1953 and Advanced Degree in Public School Administration from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville. Jim began his teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse, then taught and coached junior high students in Vandalia before being elected Fayette County Superintendent of Schools in 1958, followed by Regional Superintendent of Schools—an educational career spanning 35 years.

Jim married Joyce Hunter on April 14, 1957, a loving and devoted marriage of 65+ years. They were blessed with three children: Mark, Julie and Jan. Jim was a loving husband and father, always prioritizing family. He was “the best of the best”.

Jim filled many leadership roles in the community including Chairman of the Vandalia 175th Celebration, served as Referendum Committee Chairman of the Okaw Valley Vocational School, served as Chairman of the Referendum Campaign for Evans Public Library District Expansion, was an active member of the Vandalia Lions Club for over 65 years and organized the local Little League and Pony League programs, still in existence today.

Some of Jim’s other interests included many types of music, antique cars, piano tuning, camping and many sports. He received numerous high school and collegiate athletic awards, also signing with the St. Louis Cardinals organization in 1949. He was a dedicated member of First United Methodist Church, teaching Sunday School, working with youth, singing in the church choir, a member of VCC prison ministry and chairing the church sanctuary renovation. Above all, his greatest and most treasured accomplishment was his family.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce; children, Mark (Beth) Staff of Springfield, IL, Julie (Greg) Zeller of Jackson, MI, Jan (Paul) Scherfling of Kirkwood, MO; 6 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sister, Melody (Phil) Freeman of Vandalia, IL; sister-in-law, Billye Staff of Carbondale, IL; cousin, Joan Keep of Kalamazoo, MI; many nieces, nephews and life-long friends.

Preceded in death by: His Parents; and 2 Brothers - William “Beeb” and Floyd Staff.

Visitation will be held at First United Methodist Church, 127 North 4th Street, Vandalia, IL, on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, from 4 to 7pm, and Thursday, February 9, 2023, from 9 to 11am, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11am, with Pastor Tom Goodell officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to First United Methodist Church of Vandalia, IL, Greenville University or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Miller Funeral Home, Vandalia, IL, is in charge of arrangements. Online memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.millerfh.net.

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