Longtime Decatur Auto Body Technician Jim Herye Dies at 70

Herye spent decades working in the auto body industry in Decatur and Chicago before retiring at 62.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 12:35am

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James Phillip 'Jim' Herye, a longtime auto body technician in Decatur, Illinois and Chicago, passed away on March 1, 2026 at the age of 70. Herye worked at various auto body shops throughout his career before retiring at the age of 62. He was an avid sports fan, particularly of the Chicago Bears, and enjoyed spending time with his 14 grandchildren.

Why it matters

Herye's passing marks the end of an era for the Decatur auto body community, where he spent decades honing his craft. His dedication to his work and passion for cars made him a respected figure in the industry.

The details

Herye worked at various auto body shops in Decatur, Illinois and at Gerber Auto Body in downtown Chicago over the course of his career. He retired at the age of 62 after a lifetime of work in the auto body industry, which he was deeply passionate about. In addition to his work, Herye was an avid sports fan, particularly of the Chicago Bears, and enjoyed spending time with his 14 grandchildren.

  • Jim Herye passed away on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 8:52 AM.
  • Herye was born on July 12, 1955 in Decatur, Illinois.
  • Herye married Deborah Mary Castor on March 3, 2000 in St. Charles, Illinois.
  • Herye retired from the auto body industry at the age of 62.

The players

Jim Herye

A 70-year-old longtime auto body technician who worked in Decatur, Illinois and Chicago before retiring at the age of 62.

Deborah Mary Castor

Herye's wife.

Thane Phillip Herye

Herye's son, who passed away before him.

Shirley Dianne Mathias

Herye's sister, who passed away before him.

Robyn Mathias

Herye's niece.

Jerry Mathias

Herye's nephew.

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The takeaway

Jim Herye's passing marks the end of an era for the Decatur auto body community, where he spent decades honing his craft and sharing his passion for cars with family, friends, and colleagues. His dedication to his work and love of the Chicago Bears will be remembered by all who knew him.