James Testa *
James “Jim” Russell Testa, 73, of San Tan Valley, Arizona (previously South Wilmington, Illinois) died Sunday, March 24, 2024, following a long illness.
Jim was born on June 19, 1950, to Charles “Russ” Russell Testa and Adrienne Isabel (Ellena) Testa in Joliet, Illinois. He graduated from Gardner-South Wilmington High School in 1968 and retired from R.R. Donnelley in 2006, after a 36-year career.
Jim and his wife Raelene were married June 29, 1974. They had two sons: Jared (Bethany) Testa of Spokane, Washington, and Adam (Anna) Testa of San Tan Valley, Arizona. Jim was “Papa” to Madison Novy of Ypsilanti, Michigan, and Zachary and David Testa of San Tan Valley, Arizona.
Jim made friends everywhere he went, from his small-town roots in Illinois to his post-retirement years in the Phoenix area. Throughout his life, he was a square-dancer, camping enthusiast, ruthless card player (like his father) and loving childcare provider for his grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife; children; grandchildren; sister Donna (Bill) Shockey of Carmel, Indiana; sister-in-law Lisa Novy of Wixom, Michigan; brother-in-law Raymond (Sandy) Lewis of Braidwood, Illinois; nieces; great-nieces and nephews; and cousins.
Interment will be held at Braceville-Gardner Cemetery at a date to be determined.