James Earl “Jim” Meritt passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, on Monday, October 13, 2025 at 5:18am.
Jim was born on May 15, 1958 to Gladys Irene (Baker) and James Earl Meritt, Sr. Raised in Fairfield, IL, he spent many years working at Napa.
He began his electrical career at McCullough Electric in Fairfield before transferring to Olney, IL and becoming a journeyman electrician. He became business partners with Howard Clodfelter in 2004 and opened Olney Quality Electric, Inc., performing industrial, commercial, farm, and oilfield electrical services until his retirement December of 2024.
Jim loved to have fun, spending time on the lake boating with family and friends. He was fiercely devoted to his wife and family, as well as many friends who became family over the years. He never met a stranger.
Jim is survived by Wife, Rena Zollars Meritt of 28 yrs.; Daughters, Jamie Meritt (Lucas Painter) of Clay City, Jana Meritt Toombs (Dustin) of Fairfield, Mandy Ginder of Olney, Hunter Meritt Amaro (Jarrett) of Ingraham, Taylor Meritt Garrard (Colby) of Olney; Son, Adam McKnight (Maggie) of Flora; Grandchildren, Brenna Curtner, Landon Smith, Gracie Toombs; Mack Ginder, Warren Toombs, June McKnight, Clare Ginder; Rhett James Amaro; Great Grandchildren, Nova Herrington; Sagelyn Smith; Ryder Herrington; Cousin, Gary Paul and Adopted Mother, Karen Clow.
He is preceded in death by Father, James Meritt; Mother, Gladys McDowell; Grandson, Braxton James Toombs; Aunt, Doris Paul and Adopted Father, Joe Clow.
Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Olney has been entrusted with arrangements.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home, Olney.
Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home, Olney. Interment will follow the services at Maple Dale Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Mt. Gilead Church.
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