James Richard Middleton passed away on Monday August 31st at home.

James was born on December 9th, 1947, the only son of Glen and Johannah Middleton, and brother to Janice.  James grew up on a farm east of Sycamore, the son of cattle farmers.  There James learned the value of being part of a community, and the value of hard work and perseverance.

James was a graduate of Sycamore High School, and later went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University in Broadcast Journalism.  James was a disc jockey, on air in San Francisco. James was also a reporter and the editor of the Boone County Journal. In addition he, achieved his Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School.

James had two true loves throughout his life, his dear wife Dorothea Bilder, and writing.

James and Dorothea were deeply in love, deeply connected, and appreciative of one another all throughout their 22 year marriage.  They enjoyed traveling to Paris and Greece, participating in their church and community organizations, and enjoying the company of one another.

James was a published author of short stories, and the novel Brewster Fullbright, the work of which he was most proud, which is available on Amazon and Apple books. 

James was a generous man with a kind heart, a gentle spirit, and an optimistic attitude about life.  He offered encouragement and support to all who knew him, even up to the end of his own life.

Recently James met a person who he developed a special bond with, Jacqueline Nelson, his caregiver.  During a particularly difficult time for James when he was struggling with his health, Jackie brought joy to his heart and laughter to his lips. 

James was preceded in death by his dear wife Dorothea Bilder. He is succeeded by his niece Amy Biundo, his great nephew, Michael Biundo, his great niece Francesca Biundo. He is also succeeded by his sister-in-law Chryssie (Bilder) Tavrides, seven other nieces and nephews, their children and much more extended family.

James was dearly loved by his family and touched the lives of everyone that knew him.

 A visitation will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 5pm to 7pm at Anderson Funeral Home, 2011 S. 4th St, De Kalb IL 60115.
 
The Funeral Mass on Saturday September 6, 2025 at 10am at St George Greek Orthodox Church, 320 S. 2nd St DeKalb IL 60115. 
 
Interment will be held at 2pm at Irving Park Cemetery, 7777 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60634
 
In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to St Jude Children's Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis TN 38105, or Heifer International,