James F. "Jim" McGee

James F. McGee, 82, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 22, 1942, in Peoria, Illinois, to the late James W. McGee and Charlotte McGee, Jim was the oldest of four brothers, preceded in death by Jerome, Michael, and Patrick.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 60 years, Judith K. McGee (née May), whom he married on May 1, 1965. Together, they raised ten children: Katherine Schmid (Matthew), James (Mary Ann), Margaret Squires (Andrew), Michael, Patrick (Katherine), John (Angie), Maureen McGee, Colleen McGee, Daniel (Brittany), and Bridget Piekarczyk (Peter). He was a proud grandfather to 24 grandchildren, including Anna, Jimmy, Maggie, Michael, Raymond (Sarah), Tommy (Hope), David, Gretchen, Christopher (fiancée Paula), Charlotte, Ada, Bridget (fiancée Ben), Jack, Patrick, Emma, Kelly, Sean, Molly, Danny (fiancée Lily), Meghan, Liam, Aidan, Alex, and Zoe.

A man of deep faith, Jim was an active member of St. Peter Cathedral in Rockford, where he served as a longtime usher and dedicated member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. He also made a lasting impact on his community as a grade school basketball coach at St. Peter School, teaching not just skills but values that inspired many.

After graduating from Spalding High School in Peoria and later earning a degree from Rockford University, Jim spent his career as a respected professional in machine tool sales-- known for his expertise, industrious innovations, and entrepreneurial spirit. Outside of work, he cherished time with family, especially his grandchildren. He was a passionate golfer who was often seen at courses around Rockford, especially Ingersoll in league play.

Jim will be remembered as a loving family man, an adoring husband, and a devout Catholic. His unwavering commitment to his faith, family, and personal growth set a powerful example for all who knew him. Whether offering a kind word of encouragement, sharing wisdom gained from experience, or connecting those in need with helpful resources, Jim's legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of his many friends and family members.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, 3910 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Peter Cathedral in Rockford, Illinois, on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Visitation an hour prior to Mass. Burial will be private at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the David & Kelly McCarthy Scholarship, supporting scholarship students at Boylan Catholic High School, a cause close to Jim’s heart. Donations can be made online or by check payable to The Catholic Foundation (IMPORTANT: memo to the McCarthy Scholarship).