James Arley Vance Jr.

BELVIDERE –James Arley Vance Jr., age 53, of Belvidere passed away peacefully Friday February 24, 2023. Born in Belvidere on March 24, 1969 to James Arley Vance Sr. & Mary Elizabeth Murphy. James lived to have a good time, always the life of the party he loved that old school Rock & Roll. He had a comforting presence and spirituality that always made others feel good after being around him. He enjoyed connecting with nature, fishing, long walks in the park and Native American history, art & culture. A true family man, James true pride and joy was spending time with his children & grandchildren. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and dear friend; he will remain forever in our hearts.

Peace, Love & Happiness.....Yippee!

He is survived by his wife, Amy L. Vance (Stone); special friend & mother of his children, Angie Fick; mother, Beth Murphy; children, Valerie (Nathan) Harbison, Andrew Vance, Olivia Vance, Brandon (Rebecca) Stone, Ty Stone and Nevaeh Plumley; step children, Adam & Sara Fick; grandchildren, Keely, Kane, Kobe, Wyatt, Harold, Hunter, Claire, Eli and Carter; siblings, Selena (Steve) Plumley, Teresa (Jeff) Hyde, Jenny (Harold) McFadden and Heather; numerous nieces & nephews; many dear friends; and beloved cats, Misses Kitty & Libby. He is predeceased by his father, James Arley Vance Sr.; daughter, Susan Wilson; sister, Elizabeth "Annie" Vance; grandparents, Arnold & Daisy Vance; nephew, Christopher; uncles, Don & Jerry; cousin, Jesse; and many more uncles & cousins; beloved cat, Muffin; and dog, Thor.

Services are Private. Cremation rites accorded. Christenson Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Interment at Belvidere Cemetery. Memorials to the family.

www.rockfordfunerals.com