James “Jim” Richard Sommer

James “Jim” Richard Sommer of Murfreesboro, TN, passed away on February 19^th, 2021 due to complications of COVID-19 virus. James was born January 23^rd, 1941 in Springfield, IL to Mr. and Mrs. William Martin Sommer.

Throughout his schooling, Jim enjoyed participating in sports activities, especially track and field. He had won several medals and awards for his tenacious athleticism. After getting his education, Jim met Sharon Diane Reid and it was love at first sight. They knew they couldn’t live without one another and got married on September 23^rd, 1960, and cherished their love for 60 years and beyond. Shortly after the wedding bells, Jim and Sharon started their family in Springfield, having a girl and two boys.

Jim worked for Pillsbury Mill Company in Springfield, IL. When Jim got word that the Pillsbury company in Springfield was closing, Jim knew the best move was to transfer to Pillsbury Mills Company located in Murfreesboro, TN in 1990.  Jim and Sharon bought a house not too far from work and settled in quite comfortably. Jim continued working with Pillsbury for 32 years until his retirement on July 17^th, 2008.

Living the retirement life, Jim and Sharon enjoyed having the freedom to travel, enjoy their time together, and treasure their time with their kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids.

He is survived by his loving wife: Sharon Diane Reid Sommer; daughter: Jamie Lynn Sommer (Jeff) Thean of Minooka IL.; sons: Richard Allen Sommer of Murfreesboro, TN., Brian David (Penny Jean) Sommer of Athens, IL.; grandkids: Courtney R. Sommer, Chelsea A. Thean, Lacey N. (Matt Housman) Thean, Faydra B. Sommer (Troy) Minton, Haley L. Thean, Kendra A. Sommer (Kyle) Gathman, Audra N. Sommer, Riley A. Thean, Alexandra L. Sommer; great-grandkids: Mateo, Natalia, Vada, Teegan, Giselle, Kannon, Kobyn, Kyson, Collen, Kollins; brother: Joseph M.(Durinda) Sommer; sisters: Nancy Sommer (Charles) Karrick, Linda Sommer (Don) Farley, Fran Sommer Bretz; brother-in-law: Doc Hughes; and lots of cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents: William Martin Sommer and Mildred Frances Sommer Best; brothers: William Sommer, Frank Sommer; sister: Becky Sommer Hughes; and brother-in-law: John Bretz.

Cremation Society of Tennessee is assisting the family with arrangements. You may send the family your sympathy or share your memories at cremationsocietyoftn.com.