James N. Tabb

James N. Tabb, 90, of Rockton, IL passed away Monday, February 2, 2026, in his home, surrounded by those he loved. 

James is survived by his wife Barbara; children: Larry (wife Diane), Christopher (wife Patricia), David (wife Traci), Steven (wife Melanie), and Michael(Linney); grandchildren: Daniel (wife Kelly), Tony(wife Liz), Ashley (husband Ben), Matthew, Jacob, John, Michael, Patrick, and Sophia; and great-grandchildren: Ryan, Brooklyn, Noah, Dominic, Nicolina, Quentin, and Ezekiel. He is preceded in death by three siblings: Joan, Jackie, and Bud; two children James Jr(survived by wife Teresa) and Suzanne; and his parents, Allen and Evelyn.

Born February 11, 1935, his early youth was fondly remembered with summers spent on his aunt Millie's resort camp in Michigan. He developed a curiosity, that turned into a lifelong passion, of all things mechanical which James turned into a lasting 40+ year career in the automotive industry as a mechanic and then service manager for multiple Ford Motor Co. dealerships. He made lasting friendships with those he met. In his free time he spent countless weekends in his garage rebuilding or repairing cars. He attained a private pilot license and also built a summer home on the shores of Lake Michigan near Manitowoc, Wisconsin where countless summer memories were made.

James and Barbara were married on May 21, 1966 in Chicago and spent the first part of their life raising a family in Berwyn, Illinois. In retirement they relocated to Waynesville, North Carolina and there they developed a love for the Smokey Mountains that lasted through his last trip in the summer of 2025. They settled back to the Midwest in 2003, living out his remaining years in Rockton, Illinois.

The family will be holding a Celebration of Life with details to be shared later.

Our blessed one

In our hearts you will ever remain

We wish you happiness where you reign

Hopefully with our Gods heavenly family

Enjoy your blessed home endlessly

It is our wish for you each day

Be content and happy in every way

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