James W. “Jim” McIlwain left his earthly life surrounded by four generations of family members on October 21, 2026. He was born on August 10, 1941 in Akron, Ohio to William M. and Etta G. McIlwain.

Jim and his family moved to Rockford, Illinois in 1948. He attended Highland Grade School, Lincoln Junior High School, and graduated from Rockford East High School in 1959. In January 1966, Jim was drafted in the United States Army “apprehensively” and honorably discharged shortly after serving. He returned to Rockford to regain his employment at Borg-Warner Corporation in the Mechanics Division. It was here that he met Jeanne L. Edson, the love of his life, who was also employed in this division. They married in 1967.

Jim was always a big sports fan whether watching his favorite team, like the Cubs, participating in sports himself, or watching his children and grandchildren participate in sports. He also loved to be in nature, especially on sunny days. He loved taking outdoor nature trips and walks with Jeanne. He supported his family by working at Rockford Powertrain (formerly Borg-Warner) for forty-five years and at the YMCA for thirty-three years.

Jim is remembered by his family and friends as a kind man of integrity who was a rock: he worked hard and showed up for others. He was always there to lend a hand for a family member or to those within the Rockford community; for example, by serving on the East High School Booster Club, ringing the bell for the Salvation Army during the holiday season, or being a blood donor for many years with the Northern Illinois Blood Bank. Jim had a wry and witty sense of humor, a joyful smile, and a generous heart. He loved jazz, history, and classic cars.

More than anything else, Jim found joy and meaning in his family. He was incredibly proud of his children and adored being a grandfather. He and Jeanne prioritized spending time with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and cherished countless wonderful memories of these times. Jim was a man of God and expressed gratitude to the Lord for his many blessings in life.

Jim and Jeanne had three children: Lisa J. (Barrett) Allman of Cottage Grove, WI; Scott W. (Heather) McIlwain of Roscoe, IL; and Lauren B. (Fadi) El-Assad of Austin, TX. He delighted in being a grandfather to his five grandchildren: Nathan (Nicole) Allman, Madeline (Everett) Schmoldt, Caelyn McIlwain, Alaina McIlwain, and Evelyn El-Assad, as well as three great-grandchildren: Charlie Allman, James Allman, and Cy Schmoldt.

Jim is survived by his sisters: Janet White, Melinda (Peter) Kaminsky, and Chris (Martin) Andersen, and brothers: Morgan (Laura) McIlwain and Brian (Deanna) McIlwain, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother John (Karen) McIlwain, his father, mother, and dear stepmother, Virginia R. McIlwain.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff at Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center for their care of Jim during the past year as his health declined.

Services will take place on Thursday, October 29, at Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center in Rockford, Illinois starting with the visitation at 10am and the funeral service at 11am.

You may send condolences and share memories at https://www.fitzgeraldfh.com.

IIn lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rockford Rescue Mission or The Salvation Army.