James "Jim" Albert Herrick, age 89, of Iola, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, September 20, 2025 in Clay County, Illinois.

Funeral service will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, September 26, 2025 at Pagel Funeral Home in Edgewood, Illinois, with visitation two hours prior to the service. Interment will follow at Iola Cemetery. Pastor Michael Durre will be presiding. In lieu of flowers, memorials may go to Clay County Hospice, Edgewood Opry, or the donor's choice.

Jim was born on August 16, 1936 in Iola, Illinois, the son of Harris Herrick and Martha Jones. He worked for many years with the International Union of Elevator Constructors. He met his sweetheart Erma while working at the hospital in Springfield. Jim loved being outdoors, and especially loved riding horses. He also enjoyed spending time riding motorcycles. James also liked music, and singing and playing at the Edgewood Opry.

Jim is survived by his son, James Herrick; daughter, Deborah "Debbie" Herrick; brother, William "Bill" (Sherry) Herrick; granddaughter, Brooke; four great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, as well as his sweetheart of 26 years, Erma Whaley and adopted daughter, Tammy Bitner.

He was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Herrick; parents, Harris and Martha Herrick; and sisters, Marceline Williamson, Jackie Allen and Joan Savage.