Pawnee, IL – James “Jimmy” Austin, 63 of Pawnee passed away Sunday, March 29, 2026 at Lincoln Memorial Hospital.
He was born February 10, 1963 in Lincoln, IL; the son of Voris James and Ruth Ann Lillard Austin. He was preceded in death by his mother in 2014 and one brother, Jon.
Jimmy married Gail Duhs on October 19, 1991 in Auburn.
Jimmy was a member of U.S. Trotting Association and had a lifelong passion for harness racing as an owner, trainer, driver and presiding judge. He will be remembered for his love of all things John Deere, his willingness to always help his family, friends & neighbors, and for his witty sense of humor.
Surviving are his wife, Gail; one son, Cory (Sarah) Sisk; two grandchildren, Evie and Anderson; father, Voris James Austin; two sisters, Jodi Becker and Julie Campbell; one uncle, Rex (Janis) Lillard; five nephews, Kalen Duhs, Matt Becker, Luke Becker, Ethan Campbell, Owen Campbell; a niece, Autumn Campbell; special cousin, Grace Lillard; sister-in-law, Shari Duhs.
Visitation will from 10 a.m. till time of memorial service at noon, Friday, April 10, 2026 at Sugar Creek United Methodist Church with Rev. Paul Dinges officiating.
Memorials may be made to the Sugar Creek Micro Pantry.