MOUNT VERNON — Franklin Jesse “Frankie” James, 70, of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away at 3:15 pm January 9, 2024 at his home. He was born December 10, 1953 in Fredricktown, Missouri to the late William Jesse and Betty Lou (Cureton) James.

Franklin is survived by his wife, Treva (Staley) James of Mount Vernon; daughter, Alona James of Ada, Oklahoma; granddaughter, Emmery Palmer of Mount Vernon; sister, Phebe James of Mount Vernon; uncle, Paul Cureton and wife, Nancy of Fredricktown, Missouri; aunts, Linda Beaty and husband, Wayne of Saint Louis, Missouri, Brenda Pogue of Fredricktown, Missouri, and Carol Vance and husband, Terry of Fredricktown, Missouri; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Frankie was preceded in death by his stepdaughter, Kristina Staley; and several aunts and uncles.

Frankie was an avid coon hunter. He loved everything horses. Frankie was a horse trainer for many years. He was a barrel racer and also enjoyed team sorting. Frankie will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Visitation will be held Thursday, January 11, 2024 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Hughey Funeral Home in Mount Vernon. A Graveside Service will be held Friday, January 12, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Rhodes Chapel Cemetery in Fredericktown, Missouri with Mr. Roger Strange officiating. Interment will follow.

Memorials may be made in Frankie’s honor to the James family, in care of Alona James or to Permanent Disabled Jockey’s Fund (PDJF). Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.