James Robert Handy "Butch", 77, of Springfield, IL passed away on Monday January 22, 2024.

Butch was born in Virden, IL on November 28, 1946 and was the son of Dennis and Ruby "Nan" Handy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter, Taylor Claire Handy-Buckley; brothers, Eugene and Russell Handy; sisters, Betty Fry, Shirley Reynolds, and Barbara Handy-Pease.

Butch is survived by his wife, Carol Hartley; children, Jamie Handy-Rhodes, Elizabeth Hartley (Alex Glaub), Tara Eagan (Robert), Shawn Grissom (Pam), Barbara Hamlin (David), and Valerie Dubree; sister, Sue Taylor; grandchildren, Hailey Handy-Rhodes, Lane Glaub, Thomas Smith, Olivia Eagan, Rylee Grissom, Damon Hamlin, McKayla Hamlin, Morgan Dubree; great granddaughter, Salem Hamlin; nieces, nephews, and many extended family members.

Butch served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. During his life, he had a passion for riding his Harley Davidson Motorcycle. He also had a "green thumb" and loved raising and caring for various plants. Butch loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandkids. He will be remembered for his endless lectures about right and wrong. Butch would always say, "Do as I say, not as I do". His children loved him for it.

Cremation services are being accorded.

Visitation will be held on Thursday February 1, 2024 at Ellinger-Kunz and Park Funeral Home (530 North 5th St. Springfield, IL 62702) from 2:00 pm till the time of the memorial service at 3:00 pm.

Flowers are encouraged to be ordered through TRUE COLORS (3 W Old State Capitol Plaza #1, Springfield, IL 62701) (217) 787-7919

Memorial donations may be made to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, https://www.vvmf.org/