James R. Elijah

James Robert Elijah, 74, of Lindenhurst, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Aug. 13, 2021, at the Village at Victory Lakes in Lindenhurst. Jim was born on Dec. 2, 1946, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Robert and Thelma (Harness) Elijah. He graduated from Clarence High School in 1965. Jim went to college and got a degree in education at Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa, and a Master's in school counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. Later he moved to Chicago and taught at Evergreen Park High School, was a guidance counselor at St. Rita High School, and later went on to finish his years at Adlai E. Stevenson High School, from where he retired after 28 years. He loved his Thunderbird cars and his Mustangs. Jim is survived by his two brothers, Jerry (Betty) Elijah and William (Sharon) Elijah. He is also survived by his niece and nephews, Sue (Todd) Elijah, Larry (Ellen) Elijah, Ron (Denise) Elijah and Mike (Kris) Elijah; great-nephews and -nieces, Caleb Davisson, Ben (Raini) Chapman, Caitlin (Connor) Schwienebart, Alyssa Elijah, Payten Elijah, Britta Elijah and Jillian Elijah; and great-great-niece, Addy Davisson. Jim will be missed by his family, friends in Illinois, and his car clubs where he showed his cars and won many trophies. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Thelma. There will be a private family burial at the Clarence Cemetery. Condolences can be sent to Jerry Elijah, 209 E Eighth St., Tipton, IA 52772; or William Elijah, 680 Spicer Ave., Clarence, IA 52216. Chapman Funeral Home has Jim's family in their care. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.chapmanfh.com. Local arrangements entrusted to Sambrano Funeral & Cremation, Gurnee, Illinois; please call Chapman Funeral Home for additional information at 563-452-3259.

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