James Henry Phillips

October 9, 1945 ~ May 20, 2024
James “Jim” Henry Phillips, 78, of Princeton, IL headed to his eternal home in Heaven on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Jim was born on October 9, 1945 in Bluefield, West Virginia, the son of Sterling and Bess Marcella (Taylor) Phillips. He served in the United States Army from 1966-1969. Jim was a Realtor for many years prior to becoming a Financial Planner. He was a member of Evangelical Covenant Church in Princeton. Jim enjoyed helping people, spending time with Christine, and he especially loved Christine’s cooking.
Jim is survived by his wife, companion, and friend Christine Cikanek of Princeton; two sons, James S. Phillips of Lake Geneva, WI and Jeffrey P. (Kari) Phillips of La Grange Highlands, IL; seven grandchildren, Jonathan, Jayson, Jeremy, Amanda, Alison, Eliot and Emily; four great-grandchildren, Kora, Scarlet, Grayson, Finnegan and one on the way.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one grandson, James S. Phillips, II. Jim was also preceded in death by his grandmother, Maude (Sheets) Taylor, who he dearly loved and who introduced him to Jesus and the plan of salvation, Jesus’ greatest gift to anyone who freely accepts it. Jesus was the center and the greatest love of Jim’s life.
Visitation will be from 4:00pm -7:00pm on Friday, May 31, 2024 at Grant-Johnson Funeral Home, 30 West Mechanic Street, Princeton, IL. Funeral Service will be at 11:00am on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Evangelical Covenant Church in Princeton with Pastor Derek and Jessica Boggs, co-officiating. Burial will immediately follow the service at Elm Lawn Memorial Park in Princeton.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Evangelical Covenant Church New Building Fund either by check or online at www.eccprinceton.org\\give click on Capital Campaign growing the mission.
Online condolences may be made at www.grant-johnsonfh.com.
Dear Jim you touched our lives in such a positive way that we will never forget you. Thank you for all your generosity of spirit and kindness to all you meet. We feel blessed to have known and loved you
Jim has been an important part of our family for over 25+ years! He helped my parents with financial planning. Then after they passed Jim assisted my Brother and I with managing the proceeds.
When I first met Jim, I could feel the light and love for Jesus pouring from him in every conversation. Even in sickness he urged me to stay in the Word and prayer!
Jim fought the good fight and finished his race. I have no doubt that he hugged Jesus and heard him say what we as Christians long to hear. Well Done , my Good and Faithful servant!
Although I miss my friend, I a confident I will see him again!
Thank You for you friendship guidance and love!