James Welburn

James J. Welburn, 82, of Pana passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family. He was born on September 14, 1943, in Pana, IL to James Harold & Velma (Allen) Welburn. He married Joyce Marie Richardson on June 27, 1964, and she survives.
James worked in the Peabody Coal Mine #10 for 17 yrs then went on to work for the Chirstian County Sheriff’s Office as a K-9 officer and investigator for 16+ years. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge #226 of Pana, later merging with Shelbyville Lodge for a combined membership of 40+ years. James enjoyed raising his K-9 dogs and spending time with his family.
Along with his wife, James is survived by his children: Kim Alde, Jamie (Tom) Jeffers, and Jim Welburn (fiancé Alma); grandchildren: Hollie Auton, Chrissy (Richard) Rahar, Andrew Denton, Cassy (P.J.) Gatons, Tyler Miller, Maria Denton, Emily (Brandon) Jones, Jacob Alde, Katie Jeffers (significant other, Lindsey Moore), Rachael & Matthew Welburn; several great-grandchildren; several brother, sisters, great nieces and nephews and brothers & sisters-in-law. He was preceded by his father, James Welburn; mother and stepfather, Velma (Floyd) Bland; a brother, sister, niece and nephew, brothers-in-law and one sister-in-law; and K-9 companions, Jerico, Max, Susie, Sheba, Duke, Caesar.
Per James wishes, private family services will be held.
Memorials in James honor may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the choice of the donor and may be made accepted by McCracken-Dean Funeral Home who is assisting the family.