James Albert Medley, known fondly to friends as "Jimmy", went peacefully into the arms of our Heavenly Father on February 22, 2026. Born on August 3, 1943, he passed surrounded by his loved ones in his home. He entered into his eternal rest and joined beloved family members who departed before him: his parents, William and Catherine Lyvers Medley and his sister, Gayle Caswell.
On June 13, 1964, he married the love of his life, Sarah Ann Taylor of Fredericktown. Together, they had two children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who lovingly called him "Papaw."
Jimmy grew up in Holy Cross, Kentucky and was a 1961 graduate of Saint Francis High School. Following high school, he joined the United States Army and became a proud veteran of his beloved country. He proved his dedication and strong work ethic throughout his 36-year career at GE. He was a member of Council 4270 Knights of Columbus and a devoted member of the Holy Trinity Catholic Church parish.
Those who knew Jimmy well would describe him as a strong, selfless, loving and compassionate man--always one to lend words of wisdom, never one to love conditionally. No matter the challenge or sacrifice, he was always there to support those he loved. Jimmy was a man of unwavering faith, which guided the life he shared with his family and friends.
Jimmy is survived by his wife of 62 years, Sarah Ann Medley; two children: Chris (Amy) of Fredericktown and Tony (Julie) Medley of Springfield; seven grandchildren: Patrick Medley; Alec (Chelsey) Medley; Hannah Medley; Elizabeth Medley; Christopher (Morgan) Medley; Mary Catherine Medley and Emilee Medley. Jimmy was blessed to see three great-grandchildren: Myla Medley, Maryn and Marli Medley. He is also survived by his brother, Ronnie (Iris) Medley He leaves behind generations of family who will continue his legacy of love and strength.
In his final moments, his spirit remained strong. He was surrounded by the love of his family, reflecting the immense love he poured into them all. On his perfect day, you could find Jimmy on the back deck enjoying the sunshine with a book in his hand, waiting for his chickadees to join him and Sarah Ann for Sunday lunch. May Jimmy have stepped into Heaven's gates and felt the warmth of that sunshine, now shining on him in everlasting peace.
Funeral Mass for James Albert "Jimmy" Medley will be conducted at 11:00 am Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Rev. Augustine Judd, O.P. officiating. Burial will be in Holy Trinity Cemetery with military honors by Marion County Veterans Honor Guard.
Pallbearers will be Alec, Patrick and Christopher Medley, Mark Gueltzow, Chandler Simpson and DaTrail Wright.
A prayer service will be held at 7:00 pm Tuesday, February 24 at Hale-Polin-Robinson Funeral Home where friends may call from 4:00 till 8:00 pm Tuesday and again from 7:00 am till 10:15 am Wednesday morning.
Hale-Polin-Robinson Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.