James 'Jim' Ator

James R. Ator, age 63 of Griggsville, IL passed away Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield, IL. He was born May 10, 1962, in Pittsfield, IL to Oliver and Eileen Bunn Ator, Jr.

Jim was a 1980 graduate of Griggsville High School. He worked as a printer for the Pike Press in Pittsfield and for Production Press in Jacksonville and most recently worked for Maschhoffs. Jim loved computers and enjoyed building and fixing them and loved shooting pool. He was a hardworking man who was meticulous about his yard. Jim was a funny and selfless man who would do anything for anyone. He was a wonderful father and grandfather who took great delight in taking them fishing and spending time with family and he will be dearly missed by all.

Jim is survived by daughters, Melissa Ator-Murphy, Heather (Steve) Hurst, Cassandra Ator, and Gretchen (J.T. Sanders) Lockerman; grandchildren, Bralen Murphy, Dyami Ator, Julian Ator, Adelie Murphy, Rayna Allen, Leander Hurst, Lysander Hurst, Winter Hurst, and Evander Sanders; bonus grandchildren, Nevaeh Crawford, Ezra Crawford, and Haisley Crawford; sister, Kathy Flowers. He was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver and Eileen Ator, Jr.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorials are suggested to be made to the family c/o Niebur Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements. 

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