Fairbury – James Hammond, 78, of Fairbury, passed away at 4:00pm, December 10, 2013 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am, Monday, December 30, 2013 at Fairbury United Methodist Church. Pastor Steven Livengood will be officiating.

Burial took place at Graceland Cemetery earlier.

Memorials may be made to Fairbury United Methodist Church.
Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury is in charge of arrangements.

James was born, January 27, 1935 in Washington Park, the son of Lawrence and Marie Mitten Hammond. They preceded him in death.

He married Joan Rector on August 14, 1954 in Washington Park. She survives.

Also surviving are his daughter, Susan (Rod) Lauderdale of Lake Charles, LA, his son Michael Hammond of Pontiac, and his granddaughter, Dallas Lauderdale.

He was a member of the Fairbury United Methodist Church.

James was a design engineer for Caterpillar Tractor Company for 43 years. He was also a piano tuner for many years and a long-time member of the Piano Technician's Guild.

He loved music and enjoyed being a part of the Peoria Area Civic Chorale. He sang in church choirs throughout his life and often sang solos for church services and weddings. He was an accomplished pianist, but he played mostly for enjoyment.

He was a devoted husband and father and dedicated his life to his work, his family, and his church.