James "Jim" Robert Fitzgerald, age 69 of Maryville, IL, born June 25, 1955, in Belleville, IL, peacefully passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family.

Jim was a 1973 graduate of Althoff Catholic High School. He attained an associate degree in Law Enforcement in 1975. He retired from Alton & Southern Railroad after 39 years of service working as a signalman and was a member of the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen. After his retirement he enjoyed driving the school bus for First Student in Collinsville from September 2015 to present.

Jim loved to be on the go and filled his schedule with bowling, golf and softball. He participated in the Tuesday Night Men's League at Camelot Bowl, Thursday Night Men's League at St. Clair Bowl, and was recognized for bowling a perfect game with the 300 Award. He played the game of golf since he was 10 years old and that love for the game led him to belong in three golf leagues. He played for Magicians softball, was an avid Notre Dame Football fan, and loved all St. Louis sports. He enjoyed traveling and cherished their family vacations.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Helen (nee Feder) Fitzgerald; and two canine companions, Micky and Buddy.

Surviving are his loving wife, Nancy (nee Klaas) Fitzgerald, whom he married October 20, 1979; two sons: David Fitzgerald of St. Louis, MO and William "Billy" Fitzgerald of Tampa, FL; one daughter, Amy (Jason) Flowers of Collinsville, IL; one granddaughter, Becka (Patrick) MacMiller; and two great-grandsons: Teddy and Wesley (due in July); a brother, Gary (Mary) Fitzgerald of Waterloo, IL; a sister, Linda Mehrtens of Belleville, IL; two canine companions: Rudy and Ilex; and five granddogs: Lily, Charlie, Toby, Chomper and Mako.

Visitation will be 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2025 at Barry Wilson Funeral Home in Maryville, IL. The family has suggested friends and family wear their favorite sports team jersey or shirt in honor of Jim's love for sports.

There will be a second visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025, at St. John United Church of Christ in Collinsville followed by a service at 11 a.m. officiated by Pastor Jennifer Sowell. Burial will be in St. John Cemetery, Collinsville.

Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Partners for Pets. They will be received at the visitation or can be mailed to Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.