James Kenneth Chestney, 82, of Medora, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025.
Born in Fort Benning, Georgia in 1943, Jim spent his early years in Springfield, Illinois before his family moved to Bloomington. It was there, at Bloomington High School, that he met the love of his life, Carolyn S. Carey. They were married on September 5, 1964, in Bloomington, and shortly after began building their life together in Alton, Illinois.
Jim was a man of principle, quiet strength, and boundless curiosity. He graduated from Bloomington High School where he played four years of football and sang in the a cappella choir. He earned his undergraduate degree from Western Illinois University and was a proud member of the TKE fraternity. He went on to earn his master’s degree and dedicated his life to education and craftsmanship.
For 37 years, Jim was a welding and machine shop teacher at Alton High School, where he was affectionately known as “Mr. C.” He also taught night classes at Lewis and Clark Community College, sharing his skills and knowledge with students of all ages. His impact was lasting—he not only taught trades, but mentored character, discipline, and pride in hard work. His “Super Welders” group was a badge of honor among his students.
Jim had a gift for working with his hands. Woodworking was one of his many passions, and he could often be found crafting in his shop or offering help on a project. He was a member of Godfrey First United Methodist Church where he used those skills to support the church. He loved history and reenactments and was an active participant in rendezvous gatherings, where he felt most connected to the past and to nature. Jim was also known for his incredible range of knowledge—he always seemed to know a little bit about everything.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James R. Chestney and Virginia A. (Colvin) Chestney, a brother Denny R Chestney and by his beloved wife, Carolyn S. (Carey) Chestney. Their love and partnership were the foundation of a beautiful family and life well lived.
Jim is survived by his children: James Chestney (Kim), Jeffrey Chestney (Myrt) Robert “Hobbie” Chestney (Kim) and Carey (Chestney) Cox (Chad); and his 14 grandchildren.
Jim’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched as a teacher, mentor, father, grandfather, and friend. His life was a testament to hard work, lifelong learning, and quiet generosity.
Visitation will be at Gent Funeral Home in Alton, IL on June 28, 2025 from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm and service will follow at 12:30. Pastor Jay Hanscom will officiate. Internment of ashes will be held privately at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s honor to Godfrey First United Methodist Church 1100 Airport Rd Godfrey Il, 62035
He will be dearly missed and forever remembered. Additional information and online guestbook may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com.
