James L. “Jake” Dulaney, age 83, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Wednesday evening, September 18, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

      He was born June 4, 1941, in Clay County, the son of James C. and Martha L. (Hough) Dulaney.  He married the love of his life, Linda K. Wheeler on April 23, 1960, at Oak Street Baptist Church in Flora, and together they have shared 64 wedding anniversaries.

      Jake will be remembered for his strong work ethic.  He had previously worked for the Embarras River Basin Agency, and the International Shoe Factory, before retiring from Valbert’s Feed Store and Valbert’s Farm.  Jake loved fishing and hunting and enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his family.    

      He is survived by his beloved wife: Linda Dulaney of Flora; children: Pamela Mayhaus (John) of Xenia, Brenda Dulaney (Donnie) of Flora, Becky Harker (Jim) of Rinard, and Randy Dulaney (Shannon) of Flora; grandchildren: Stephanie Harp (Todd) of Lincoln, Tiffany Dulaney (Josh) of Xenia, Jason Bullard (Brandi) of Neoga, Jami Chase (Josh) of Fairfield, Bryan Bullard (Kim) of Xenia, Linda Puckett (Jeremiah) of Rinard, Casey Workman of Flora, Shelley Chase (Darrin) of Brownstown, Coty Workman (Jesse) of Flora, Brittiney Greenwood (Curtis) of Flora, Hannah Mayhaus of Bluff City, and bonus grandson, Ben Harrington of Mt. Erie; 26 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great-grandchildren; siblings: Donald “Abe” (Cheryl) Dulaney of Flora, Phyllis (Howard) Sunderland of Taylorville, and Debbie (Rodney) Payne of Cisne; sister-in-law: Zelda Dulaney; several nieces and nephews, and his beloved dog, Tiny.

      He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant son: Michael L. Dulaney; a daughter: Lisa K. Dulaney; a brother: William “Buck” Dulaney; and two beloved dogs: Buddy and Shelby.

      A funeral ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery, Flora.  A visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to the family, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com