Hillsboro - James Lee Ricketts, 63, Hillsboro, passed away in his home on Tuesday, October 5, 2021 at 5:20 a.m. following a lengthy illness.
James was born in Champaign, IL on January 27, 1958. He was the son of the late Leslie Earl and Linda Lou (Drollinger) Ricketts. He was raised in Oakwood, IL, graduating from Oakwood High School in 1976. While attending Oakwood High School, James played football, baseball and ran track. He was a member of the Wason Honor Society.
James lived several years in Kingman before moving to Hillsboro in 2007. James worked with his father as a tile setter for the Illiana Tile Company.
James was known as a competitor in rodeo riding his whole life. He competed throughout many states. He was a member of the National Rodeo Association and the Midstate Rodeo Association. He was a Reserve Champion in the Midstate Rodeo.
James was a member of the Bricklayers Union.
He was formerly married to Pennie L. Whitmyer.
He leaves behind his four children, Leslie Ricketts, Hillsboro; Lacey Chezem, Danville, IL; Jared Ricketts, Hillsboro and Joshua Ricketts, U.S. Army Nation Guard, stationed in South Carolina; a sister, Brenda (Roger) Woodrow, Covington and a brother, Donnie Ricketts, Covington; four grandchildren, Treylin Ricketts, Tristyn Rahm, Kenli Ricketts and Kagni Ricketts. He was preceded in death by his parents and a son , Justin Ricketts.
As per James request cremation services will be accorded him with no services scheduled at this time.