James Hume

December 16, 1939 - October 20, 2026

James Hume, age 86, passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Lawrence and Evelyn Hume, James was raised in Cincinnati, where he met the love of his life, Sheela M. Caldwell. Together, they moved to the Chicagoland area, where they built a life and raised their family. James and Sheela shared more than three decades of marriage until her passing in 1999. James was a longtime resident of South Holland, Illinois, where he made his home for more than 20 years.

A proud United States Army veteran, James carried with him a strong sense of duty, loyalty, and dedication throughout his life. He was a hardworking man who spent approximately 20 years employed at Allis-Chalmers in Harvey, Illinois, where he worked in manufacturing and factory operations. He later continued his career at Ardco Glass for approximately 15 years. A proud member of the United Steelworkers union, James valued hard work, solidarity, and the friendships formed throughout his working years.

Although James had a wonderful appreciation for music, dancing, and the performing arts. In his younger years, particularly during high school, James was an accomplished dancer who partnered with his sister in dance competitions, often bringing home victories together. His love of entertainment continued throughout his life, becoming a cherished tradition shared with those closest to him.

For more than 20 years, James enjoyed attending theatrical productions alongside his family and his longtime companion, Gloria Golk. Together, they attended countless performances at Drury Lane Theatre, Paramount Theatre, and other venues throughout the Chicagoland area. From Broadway musicals to jazz concerts, these outings provided years of laughter, enjoyment, and treasured memories.

James also appreciated the beauty and peacefulness of the outdoors. He enjoyed taking walks, spending time in nature, and finding quiet moments to clear his mind. He was a man who found contentment in life's simpler pleasures and valued the time spent with those he loved.

Following the passing of his beloved wife, Sheela, James found love and companionship with Gloria Golk, with whom he shared many meaningful years, wonderful experiences, and cherished memories.

James was the loving father of Todd (Jennifer) Hume and Tonya (Clayton E.) Combs and the proud grandfather of Clayton James Combs and Andy Todd Combs. He is also survived by his longtime companion, Gloria Golk, and his dear sister, Ilene (the late Kenneth) Winkler, along with many extended family members, dear friends, and those who became family throughout his lifetime.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sheela M. Hume (née Caldwell); his parents, Lawrence and Evelyn Hume; and his siblings, Elmer, Annie, Mary Ellen, and Chuck.

James will be remembered as a friendly, respectful, hardworking, and devoted gentleman who found joy in the company of loved ones, the beauty of nature, and the music and performances that filled so many wonderful evenings. Perhaps one of the greatest gifts James gave his family was the simple assurance that they were loved. Whenever his family left his presence, they always knew just how much they meant to him. His love was steady, genuine, and never left in question. That quiet expression of devotion will remain one of his most treasured legacies.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation for James Hume will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 9:00 AM until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 AM at Vandenberg Funeral Home, 17248 S. Harlem Avenue, Tinley Park, Illinois 60477.

Interment will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Frankfort, Illinois.

As James would say, always remember who loves you in the world.