James Lee Maroon

James "Jim"  Maroon, 93, of Neoga, Illinois passed away at 5:45 AM Tuesday March 3, 2026 in Willow Breeze Hospice House of Mattoon, Illinois.  He was born May 24, 1932 in Greenville, Illinois the son  of James and Eva (Bimes) Maroon.  James married Connie Roberts  August 2, 1957 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.  Mr. Maroon was a teacher, school administrator, and coach, he worked in Mt Auburn, Morrisonville, Brownstown, Clay City, and Neoga. Jim was also a preacher in Jewett, Charleston, Trilla, and Cooks Mills. After completing his primary education in Greenville, Jim began his college education in 1951. In 1953 he joined the Army, he as a member of the Honest John 7th Rocket Battalion and served in Germany. After leaving the Army in 1955 Jim completed his bachelors from Greenville College in 1957. Jim was awarded his Masters Degree from Southern Illinois University in 1964. Jim also served as a basketball official for 30 years, he officiated Illinois State Tournaments and the All Star Tournament. In November of 2025 he was named an officials inductee into the National Athletic Hall of Fame. He was Co-Owner Operator of the Mattoon Bible Book Store in Mattoon, Illinois.  Jim enjoyed traveling with his wife and spending time with his family. Jim was an avid golfer and sports fan. He may have had you as a student, pastored your church, officiated one of your baseball, basketball, or softball games, or married you at the alter. 
    
He is survived by his sons, Steve Maroon and his wife Lee Ann of Neoga, Illinois, Brian Maroon and his wife Michel of St. Joseph, Illinois, Greg Maroon and his wife Janette of Beloit, Wisconsin and; grandchildren, Brandon Maroon (Chauntel), Nathan Maroon (Shelby), Dustin Maroon, Darrin Maroon, Zea Maroon, Carson Maroon, Emily DeVoy; great grandchildren, Asher Maroon, Izzy and Harminy Johnstone, Baker Lee DeVoy, and Amelia; several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Maroon was preceded in death by his parents; wife; sisters, Juanita, Evelyn Grigg, Irene Liedner, Betty Frank; and brother, Don Maroon.
 As per his wishes cremation rites will be accorded and there is no public services scheduled at this time.
 The Swengel - O’Dell Funeral Home of Neoga, Illinois is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.swengel-odell.com.

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