James W. "Jimmy" Brewer

James Willis "Jimmy" Brewer, 88 of Beardstown, died Thursday, August 7, 2025 at Beardstown Health and Rehab.

He was born June 23, 1937 in Beardstown, the son of James Newton and Nellie Irene Fritz Brewer. He married Elsie Dugger on August 9, 1956 and she survives in Beardstown.

He is also survived by five children Terry Brewer (wife Brenda) of Beardstown, Tammy Hageman (husband Jack) of Kewanee, Timmy Brewer of Beardstown, Tom Brewer (wife Teresa) of Springfield, and Todd Brewer (wife Becky) of Beardstown; 14 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Patsy Knous of Texas and Marjorie Graham of Beardstown; two brothers, Larry Brewer (wife Patty) of Beardstown and Tony Brewer of Arkansas; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Teresa, and a son, Teddy, both in infancy, three sisters, Debra Swan, Cindy Davis, Phyllis McCulley, and a great-grandchild.

James attended Beardstown Schools before starting work at the local flour mill and casting his nets as a commercial fisherman. He later built a career at Oscar Mayer until its closure, then brought color to the world as a contracted painter for Excel, later Cargill. Jim found his peace in the great outdoors. He was happiest with a fishing pole in hand, his favorite spot always somewhere along the river's edge. Above all, he cherished the role of grandfather, finding endless joy in his growing family.

Funeral services will be held at Noon on Monday, August 11, 2025 at First Christian Church in Beardstown. The family will meet with friends one hour prior to the services at the church on Monday. Burial will be held at a later date in the Beardstown City Cemetery. Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been suggested to Beardstown Christian Academy or Cass/Schuyler Area Hospice. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.