James Ransom Paden

ASHEVILLE – James (Jim) Ransom Paden, 87, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 10 at Stone Creek Health and Rehab in Asheville, NC.  He was born in Greenup, IL on Christmas Day in 1935, to James Fredrick Paden and Irma Ennis.  He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Peggy Louise Paden.  Jim and Peggy had one child, Jimmy Paden (LoriKay) of Asheville, N.C.  Also surviving are two grandchildren, Jolee Paden and Justen Paden (Laura); and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Jim grew up in Champaign and graduated from Champaign High in 1954. In 1968, the Paden family moved to St. Joseph, establishing many friendships that still exist today.  He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and worked for several tech companies such as Magnavox and Hewlett-Packard.  He retired from HP in 1996 after working there for 29 years. 

Aside from work, his favorite pastime was spending time with Peggy and his family on trips, watching the grandkids’ sporting events or just following Peggy around town.  Jim volunteered wherever he was needed and loved spending time at the St. Joseph Church of Christ, Habitat for Humanity, and numerous mission trips.  He was always there to lend a helping hand.  Jim’s wit and dry sense of humor were unique, and he could make you laugh when you would least expect it.   After Peggy passed in 2017, he moved to the Asheville, NC to be closer to family.  He did love the mountains and the beautiful landscape of North Carolina. 

Jim loved the Lord with all his heart.  His faith spoke through his actions more than his words.  His love for the Lord was modeled in such a way that his entire family will carry on and live out this faith for the Kingdom.  Thanks be to God for his life and his legacy.

A celebration of life will be held in St. Joseph, Ilinois at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Jolee Paden and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) in Washington DC. 

For those who desire, condolences may be offered to the family under Jim’s obituary at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.