James Alvin Funderburk “Big Jim” went to be with the Lord on March 24, 2017. He was born February 27, 1944 and grew up in New City.

Jim graduated high school from Chatham Glenwood in 1962. He was a member of 4-H, baseball teams and church bowling leagues. Jim attended the University of Illinois and Illinois State University, earning his teaching degree. He taught for 30+ years at several schools, retiring from Franklin Middle School in 1997. He enjoyed watching high school and college basketball and running the time clock at basketball games at Franklin Middle School. Jim’s life started as a farmer and he continued the tradition by teaching his own family the farming life, always endorsing the John Deere way.

Jim found great enjoyment in attending auctions of all kinds – farm, toy, household, etc. Most auctioneers knew him on a first name basis and he had permanent bid numbers on file.

Jim was a life-long member of South Fork Church of Christ where he served as a Deacon, sat on several boards and committees, and taught Sunday school and Youth Group classes.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, James Ross Funderburk; and two sons, William Grant and James Lee Funderburk.

He is survived by loving wife Patricia Bennett Funderburk; step-daughter Rebecca Cox Parsons (husband, Adam); grandchildren, Emilee James Funderburk and Ethan Marcus Liston; mother, Grace Brawner; brother and sister, Gary Funderburk and Carol Funderburk Surratt; uncle, Harold Weaver and many cousins.

Visitation will be from 4-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at Wilson Park Funeral Home in Rochester.  Memorial services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 30, 2017 at South Fork Church of Christ in Rochester with Reverend Josh Bennett officiating.

Memorial donations can be made to South Fork Church of Christ or a local Alzheimer’s Organizations.

 Service Information