James Leonard Everett, “JL,” age 79, of Williamsfield, Illinois, died Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Richard Owens Hospice Home in Peoria, Illinois, surrounded by his loved ones.

James was born September 14, 1946, in Walland, Tennessee, the son of Willard and Cecil Mae (Burchfield) Everett. He graduated from Walland High School. He married Mary Elizabeth Childers on April 20, 1969, in Peoria, Illinois. He proudly served in the United States Army in Vietnam. He was employed and retired from Caterpillar Tractor Company.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his family. He was a member of the Thayer Missouri American Legion and the Clifton Lodge No. 463, A.F. & A.M. Masonic Lodge. He had a very special place in his heart for his pets. He was a man with a big heart and a love for science fiction.

James was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother, and his older sister, Joyce.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Mary Everett; his children, Nancy Everett, Sherrie Everett, and Rebecca (Marcus) Doubet, all of Williamsfield, Illinois; three grandchildren, James (Carol) Doubet of Bowling Green, Kentucky, Tyler (Samantha) Doubet of Williamsfield, Illinois, and Katelynn Doubet of Williamsfield, Illinois; and four great-grandchildren, Rylee Doubet, Casen Peterson, Lexi Doubet and Avery Doubet, all of Williamsfield, Illinois. He is also survived by his sister, Betty Gold of Bartonville, Illinois, and one brother, Charles (Mary) Everett of Dandridge, Tennessee.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Smith Funeral and Cremation, Maryville, TN.

Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Home & Crematory in Knoxville, Illinois, and Smith Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Maryville, Tennessee, are assisting the family with these arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family of James L. Everett. Condolences may be shared at Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.