James A. Paul

James Anthony Paul, 74, of Pinckneyville, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 11:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at the home of his sister, Cathrine Mary Paul, in Carbondale, Illinois, after a courageous battle with declining health due to bladder cancer.

James was born April 1, 1951, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Vernon James and Annie Doreen (Casey) Paul. The family moved to Carbondale in March 1968. He graduated from Carbondale Community High School and attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.

Over the years, James held a variety of jobs before discovering his true calling as a mechanic. He worked in several auto shops before becoming the proud owner of his own auto repair business in Hurst, Illinois. Outside of work, James enjoyed reading, gardening, watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball, and spending time with Oreo, his beloved black-and-white cat.

James is survived by his siblings Maureen Jones of Wentzville, Missouri; John Edward Paul, Cathrine Mary Paul, David Michael Paul, and Joseph James Paul, all of Carbondale, Illinois; and by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Thomas Paul, in 2014.

In accordance with his wishes, no services will be held.

Ministry of Comfort Lovingly Entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.