James Blythe, Jr.

James Michael Blythe, Jr. (Mike) of Springfield, Missouri, passed away April 14, 2023, at his home in Springfield.

He was preceded in death by his father Mike Blythe of Saybrook, Illinois in 2001, his mother Cathy Jones Blythe of Land O’ Lakes, Florida in 2022, and his uncle Roy Blythe in 2021.

He is survived by his beloved daughter Mackenzie Blythe (James Wichtner) of Gibson City, Illinois; brother Larry Blythe (Susan) of North Carolina, and Larry’s sons Adam, Gabriel, Isaiah, and Trevor; aunts and uncles Judy Blythe Kelly (Dick) of Saybrook, Illinois, Tricia Blythe Douglas (Tommy) of Arrowsmith, Illinois, Vicki Jones Bane (Larry) of Tampa, Florida, Jim Jones of Mattoon, Illinois, Bill Jones (Nancy Gathman Jones) of Springfield, Missouri, Dianne Jones of Carlock, Illinois, his long-term partner Debbie Coop of Springfield, and numerous cousins and friends.

Mike was born December 17, 1968, at Edwards Air Force Base in California and grew up in Saybrook. He lived in Gibson City for a period of time and ultimately ended up in Southwest Missouri, spending time in Branson West, Kimberling City, and Springfield, Missouri.

He worked in various construction industry jobs, but spent most of his time as a plumber. Mike was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan and greatly enjoyed sports and outdoor activities. In spite of suffering from allergies, he sure did love his cat, Miley. He loved his mother dearly, missed his father greatly, and never met a stranger, warming up quickly to anyone he met. He had a never-ending wit and practiced applying it to almost anyone he talked to. Mike was a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post 639 in Springfield, Missouri, where he dedicated much of his time and energy. He had a profound respect and admiration for his Country and those who served in the military, including his dad and uncles who served in the Army and Air Force during the Vietnam era. He loved his family and friends and would spend hours on the phone connecting with them.

Mike was excited to recently move into his new home on the west side of Springfield and was looking forward to getting back to many of the activities that had been neglected in recent years due to injuries and failing health. Although departing this life far earlier than he had hoped, he was looking forward to seeing his parents and other loved ones in the next life, and he will be greatly missed here.

A visitation will be held at the Saybrook Christian Church from 10:30 am to noon Friday, April 21, 2023.

Flowers may be sent to the church for the visitation, and donations may also be made in Mike's honor to the Gibson City Sons of the American Legion Post 568: 203 N Sangamon Ave, Gibson City, IL 60936.

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