James K. Talley

James K. Talley, 82, of Zion, Illinois, peacefully passed away on November 25, 2025, in Zion, Illinois and is now with the Lord. He was born on December 6, 1942, in Waukegan, Illinois, the son of Earl Raymond Talley Sr. and Florence (Née Smith) Broadway.

James received Christ as his personal Savior in his early thirties. He worked for many years at Jordy’s hotdog stand in Waukegan before opening his own hotdog stand, Talley’s, in Beach Park, Illinois. James was actively involved with Special Recreation for Northern Lake County, where he coached and traveled with his son, Mark. He later joined the Zion Park District, where he was the bus driver for the senior citizen program and eventually worked in the maintenance department until retiring to care for his beloved wife, Ann Marie.

He had a deep love for his country and a profound respect for the military, holding a special place in his heart for veterans and POWs. He was always very social no matter where he went, and would help anyone that was in need. His love and dedication to his family was greatly felt by his wife of 42 years before her passing in 2009. He loved his children and especially his grandchildren, who were the light of his life.

James is survived by his children: Theresa Talley Galvan, Mark Talley, and Lisa Wright; his grandchildren: Ashley (Anthony) Taylor, Jared Galvan, Isaiah Wright, and Mariah Wright; and his great-granddaughter, Elena Rose. He is also survived by siblings Kerry Vukadin, Kathleen Vukadin, and Lawrence (Anna) Vukadin; several additional brothers and sisters; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Marie (Corcoran) Talley; his son, Matthew James Talley; his parents, Earl Raymond Talley Sr. and Florence Broadway; and siblings Madelon Wengel, Earl Talley Jr., Kevin Vukadin, and Karen Vukadin.

A private burial will take place at Mt. Olivet Memorial Park in Zion, Illinois, on Monday, December 1, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, donations in James’ name may be made to Midwest Veterans Closet, 1720 N Greenbay Rd., North Chicago, IL 60064.