BENTON — James (Jim) David Chady, 88, of Benton, died Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, surrounded by his family.

He was born Oct. 2, 1937, in Whitewater, Wisconsin, the son of Ernest Edward and Mary Lucile (Daley) Chady. He married Daryl Kirsti Haven on April 27, 1957; she preceded him in death in 2012.

A 1962 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Mr. Chady had an extensive career with Old Ben Coal, serving in roles from mine manager to vice president of the Illinois Division. After retiring in 1992, he worked as a consulting engineer in the United Kingdom. He and his wife also owned and operated the “Hard Day’s Nite” Bed & Breakfast in Benton.

Mr. Chady was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, the Benton Elks, and the Boccie Ball Club, and was a past president of the Illinois Mining Institute. He was an avid golfer and a fan of the Green Bay Packers and St. Louis Cardinals.

Survivors include five children, Linda Chase and husband Gary, David Chady and wife Ruth, Jodi Ussery and husband Roy, Daniel Chady and wife Shirley, and Peter Chady and wife Christine; a brother, John Bernard Chady; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; two brothers, Edward Joseph and Thomas Charles; and a sister, Mary Therese.

Visitation and a rosary will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 13, at Morton & Johnston Funeral Home. A funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 14, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with burial to follow at Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com.