James Vestal

James Jeffery Vestal, 61, of Jacksonville, MO passed away on April 7, 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer. Jimmy was born on February 1, 1960 to James F. Vestal and Virginia Daiprai in Moberly, MO. After attending Cairo high school, he began his 41-year long career with the railroad, starting with Norfolk and Western leading to his retirement with Norfolk and Southern in February of 2020. Jimmy was also a volunteer fighter for the Northeast R-IV Rural Fire Association and the Jacksonville Fire Department for many years. Jimmy met Tammy, the love of his life, and the two were married in Paris, MO on October 20, 1990. Jimmy was an extremely fun and loving father to his son, Jonathan Laird. Jimmy was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world, something he often mentioned. He was proud of Jonathan and adored Tammy. He always did his best to support them. Jimmy was very passionate about racing, he loved being an Official when the Moberly Speedway opened and later working on the pit crews of different racers. He was always enthusiastic about his annual race excursions with his friends. Not surprisingly, also enjoyed collecting railroad memorabilia. Anyone who knew Jimmy knew that he was the most loving father and husband a family could ask for, which would explain why he was such a natural with children. He had a love for chocolate milk and chocolate donuts which he would share with everyone around and before anyone knew it, he had others hooked on his favorite snack. Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents; James and Virginia Vestal; siblings, Lloyd “Mack” McCawley, Michael Patrick McCawley, Peggi McCawley, Patty Sue McCawley, and Timothy McCawley; his paternal and maternal grandparents and his nephew, Jon Freels. He is survived by his wife, Tammy Vestal of Jacksonville; son, Jonathan Laird of Jacksonville; nephews, Michael J. McCawley and wife Richelle of Huntsville, Scott McCawley of Huntsville, and Patrick McCawley of Clifton Hill; an uncle, cousins, great nieces and nephews; extended family, and many good friends. The family requests that any memorial contributions be made to the Monroe County Cancer Supporters at 118 N. Main St, Paris, MO 65275. Family will hold a private service at a later date.