James Robert Scherle

PALMYRA, Va. – James Robert Scherle, affectionately known as Jim, 62, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, at his residence in Palmyra, Va., with loved ones by his side.

Born on Nov. 14, 1962, in Red Bud, Ill., to the late Robert and Regina Scherle, Jim was raised in the Roman Catholic faith. He believed deeply in the teachings of Jesus and strove to live his life guided by those principles.

He attended elementary school at St Patrick’s Parish in Ruma, Ill., graduated from Red Bud High School, and went on to pursue higher education at several institutions, reflecting his lifelong desire to learn. Jim studied electrical engineering at the University of Maine in Orono, attended the Central Maine Medical Center School of Nursing, and later earned his bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Southern Maine.

A proud veteran, Jim honorably served his country in the United States Navy. His enlistment took him to various bases around the county including St. Louis, Mo. and San Diego, Calif., as well as on deployments at sea. Following his service, he built a meaningful career as a registered nurse, working in general care, and later in central nervous system and spinal services. His compassion, intelligence, and dedication left a lasting impression on both his colleagues and the patients he cared for.

Throughout his life, Jim called many places home, including Ruma, Ill.; Newport, Bangor, and Lewiston, Maine; Livingston, Grand Prairie, and Arlington, Texas. He finally settled in Palmyra, Va. with his wife of 38 years, Brigette.

Jim loved spending time with his family, friends, and beloved furry companions. He was an avid hiker, exploring trails from Mt. Katahdin in Maine to the Grand Canyon and Volcano National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. He was also a curious and thoughtful reader who enjoyed delving into a wide range of topics. A passionate explorer of cultures through food, Jim took great delight in discovering new cuisines and sharing meals with those he loved.

Jim’s adventurous spirit, kind heart, and gentle humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

James is survived by his wife, Brigette Scherle; his son, Wesley Scherle; his siblings, Clyde Scherle (Deb), Mark Scherle (Diane), and Jane Nisinger; as well as a host of nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and countless friends.

A funeral mass to honor Jame’s life will be held on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, located at 1 Pioneer Ln, Ruma, Il 62278, with a visitation hour beginning at 9:30 a.m., and a funeral service to follow at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to:

St Jude’s Research Hospital in Jame’s memory