James R. "Jim" Roush, 89 of Urbana, died at 4:35 a.m. Thursday, May 25, 2017 at MeadowBrook Health Care Center in Urbana. Memorial Services will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday May 30 at Renner-Wikoff Chapel & Crematory, 1900 S. Philo Rd., Urbana with a reception 1 hour prior to service time. Rev. Dr. Andy Adams will officiate.

Jim was born June 17, 1927 in Sycamore, the son of Lemuel and Eulalia (Hart) Roush. He married Doris M. Ingram on June 13, 1954. He is survived by his wife, Doris of Urbana, daughter, Jann Marie Meyer (D.J.) of Champaign, grandchildren, Jessi Marie Hosmon (Brian) and Brent Meyer (Amara), great-grandchildren, Arlanna, Chloe and James (named after his great-grandfather). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brothers, Austin Roush (Evelyn), Richard Roush (Phyllis), Marvin Roush (Phyllis) and Justin Roush and a sister, Winifred (Morris).

Jim graduated from Sycamore High School and attended the University of Illinois where he graduated with a BS degree. Then he went on to get his MS in 1953 and PhD in 1957. He was Professor of Agriculture and Consumer Economics (ACES) at the U of I. He received many high academic awards and is on the Bronze Tablet at the U of I. He also served in the US Army during the Korean Was. Jim was fondly called "WHO" by all the grandkids and great grandkids. This nickname was given to him by his first born granddaughter.

Jim was a HUGE Illini fan, especially of the football team. He was a season football ticket holder from 1954-2013. During this time he only missed 1 home game in all those years. He loved most all sports. He was on a bowling team and also loved golf. He even got 2 "Hole in One" in his golfing days. He was a member of Quest: A Community of Grace Church in Urbana where he always looked forward to his Men's Breakfast Church Group on Wednesday mornings. He was very active in his church and served on many church committees over the years.

His dog was very important to him and the family has asked for memorial contributions to be made to the Champaign County Humane Society, 1911 E. Main St., Urbana, IL 61802.