James Jackie Ford, age 57, of O'Fallon, Ill., born May 22, 1953 in Salem, Ohio, to James W. and Vera (nee Young) Ford, passed away May 16, 2011 at his home in O'Fallon, Ill.

James graduated from East Palestine High School, Ohio, in 1972. He served as an EMT and fireman in his younger years at East Palestine and Columbiana, Ohio. He enlisted in the Air Force in 1980, serving most of his time at Scott AFB as an Air Traffic Controller. Among his many decorations, he received the Commendation Medal and two Humanitarian Service Medals. After his military service, he began working at Mid Coast Aviation as supervisor of building, grounds, and maintenance, where he was still employed upon his death.

He was very handy around the house, had a passion for woodworking, and enjoyed watching dirt-bike racing. He was a devoted husband, fun dad, and loving grandpa.

Mr. Ford was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Andrew "Sonny" Ford.

Surviving are his wife Tina (nee Davis) Ford of O'Fallon; children James E. Ford of O'Fallon, Tiffany E. Junge of Mascoutah, and Jamie M. Ford of Lebanon; grandchildren Victoria M. Junge, Kaylee M. Ford, Ashlee E. Ford, Brett T. Ford, and a granddaughter on the way. Also surviving are sisters Michelle "Mickie" Conner of East Palestine, Ohio and Sandra "Sis" Spencer of Enon Valley, Penn.

Because of James' and his family's love of all animals, memorial donations are suggested to Spencer Pet Rescue and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Visitation: Friends may call from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m., Thursday, May 19, 2011 and from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m., Friday, May 20, 2011, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 W. Washington St., O'Fallon.

Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m., Friday, May 20, 2011 at Wolfersberger Funeral Home with Rev. Ron Dickinson, officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.