Mary Eileen James

Eileen James, 83, of Decatur, passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

Visitation will be on Saturday, March 14, 2026 from 10 am to 12 Noon, at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home, Decatur with funeral service to follow at 12 Noon. Burial will follow at Boiling Springs Cemetery, Decatur. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Eileen’s honor may be made to PawPrint Ministries.

Eileen was born on July 13, 1942 in Decatur, the daughter of Delmar and Frances (Duggan) Davis. She grew up in Assumption, IL. She married Ronald James on April 12, 1962 in Assumption and he preceded her in death.

Eileen graduated from Millikin University in 1987 after going back to school while working full-time, pursuing an education degree. She was a 5th grade teacher at the Warrensburg-Lathan Elementary School for over 20 years. Prior to her teaching career, she worked as a hair stylist for many years and owned Oakwood Beauty Salon. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Decatur, the Red Hat Society, and TREATS. She loved to travel with her husband and friends with memorable trips to Hawaii, Alaska, Mexico and Santa Fe.

Eileen is survived her 2 daughters, Melinda (husband Scott) Rueter and Cynthia “Cindy” James, all of Decatur; and 2 grandchildren, Griffin and Kaitlyn.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband Ronald; and a brother Robert Davis