James "Jim" H. Sands, 79, of Champaign died at 4:24 a.m. Sunday, November 9, 2008 at Carle Foundation Hospital.

A memorial service will be held at noon, Thursday, November 13 at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Champaign. Rev. Laura Johnston will officiate. Burial is private at Roselawn Cemetery Champaign. Renner-Wikoff Chapel & Crematory 1900 S. Philo Rd. Urbana is handling the arrangements.

James Sands was born April 8, 1929 in Decatur, IL the son of Lewis and Edna Gerschwiller Sands. He married Naomi Ruth Sands June 13, 1959 in Carbondale, IL. After being married to his beloved wife, Naomi, for over 47 years she preceded him in death on October 15, 2006.

Mr. Sands is survived by a son Scott L. Sands of Homer Glen, IL; a sister Shirley (Charles) Haworth; and two grandchildren Alexis N. Sands and Adam J. Sands. A sister Barbara Olsen preceded him in death.

Jim earned a BA from the U of I and was a Regional Sales Manager for the Illinois Central Railroad for over 32 years. Jim loved golf, U of I football and basketball, and spending time with his family and friends. He was a man of great character that made everyone feel special. Everyone he met was a friend. He was nicknamed "Abe" by his friends.

He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. We all were blessed to have known Jim.

Memorials may be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church 1700 Crescent Dr. Champaign, IL 61821. Condolences may be offered at renner-wikoffchapel.com.