James (Jim/Jimmy/Jimmers) Arthur Rea Jr, 64, passed away peacefully at home in Elkhart, IN on September 15, 2026.

He is survived by mother, Sue (Marc) Gantt, father, Jim (Jan) Rea, sister Connie (Mike) Story, sister Cindy (Mark) Whittaker, nephew Brandon Palmer, niece Corinn Whittaker and nephew Collin Whittaker.

James attended school at Aux Chandelles (ages 6-7), Roosevelt Elementary (ages 8-11) and Horizon Learning Center (ages 12-18). While at HLC, he was a member of the handbell choir and basketball team. He was also an active participant in Special Olympics competing in track and field events.

After graduating in 1980, he moved into supported living and began working at ADEC Industries where he continued to work for 35+ years.

If you ask anyone who knew James, they would tell you he never met a stranger. He greeted everyone with a smile and a hug or handshake. James loved his family, food, football (especially the Chicago Bears), bowling, animals, boat rides, maps, country music, Michael Jackson, Scooby Doo, playing cards and dice games. He was proud of his independence and lived life to the fullest.

A time of visitation will take place on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 2-4 pm at Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home, 403 W. Franklin St. Elkhart, IN 46516. To honor James’ love of sports, feel free to wear your favorite sports attire.

The family would like to express their gratitude and appreciation to NoraCare for the outstanding care staff gave James in the last 2 years. Your love and dedication were a tremendous blessing. We will be forever grateful.

Donations in James’ honor can be made to Aseracare Hospice, 808 Vale Park Road, Suite 200 Valparaiso, IN 46383, whose services were both caring and comforting throughout this difficult time.