James (“Jim”) Keasler, 74, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, surrounded by his beloved wife and daughters.

He was born September 20, 1951, to loving parents Charles H. and Margaret Mary (McCormick) Keasler. Jim attended St. Joseph Grade School, was a proud graduate of Ridgway High School, class of 1969, and later went on to earn a bachelor's degree at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

A farmer by trade and calling, his career began as soon as he could walk, and grew all the more through his development of a depth of agronomy knowledge and the family farming history instilled in him by his parents. Jim farmed with his brother and father for many years and took pride in caring for the land, previously serving on the board of the Gallatin County Soil and Water Conservation District.

Throughout his life, he also found joy in being a writer, historian, and genealogist. Jim enjoyed being able to impart meaningful information to others, often by creating books of family history or sharing memorable archived newspaper articles he discovered in his historical research.

Jim found some of his greatest fulfillment in being a devoted husband, father, brother, and uncle. Not wanting to miss a moment, he was always present to support his family, spend time with them, and make memories. Anyone who knew Jim knew that he was the most loving father and spouse a family could ask for. He will be remembered not only for who he was as a friend, community member, and pillar of his family, but also for his agricultural vocation, sense of humor, strong work ethic, and broad knowledge.

Jim is survived by his wife of 30 years, Karen (Bard); two daughters, Abigail and Kallie Keasler; stepson Brad Kilmer; sisters Carol, Judy, Connie, and Glenda; and brother John. He is also survived by many wonderful nieces and nephews, in-laws Crystal McGrew Keasler and Carl Payne, along with his dear Bard in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by stepsons, Kris and Ryan Kilmer.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Shawneetown Public Library, the Gallatin County Soil and Water Conservation District, or to the Divine Foundation (an educational non-profitat 1719 Waverly Place, St. Louis, MO 63104.)

Visitation: Family and friends are welcome at Cox and Son Funeral Home, Ridgway, on Friday, September 18, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and at St. Kateri Catholic Church on Saturday, September 19, from 9:30 a.m. until service time.

Services: A mass will be held at St. Kateri Catholic Church at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, with Fr. Carl Scherrer officiating, followed by burial at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Ridgway.