James Robert “Red Eye” Chaffin, age 69 of Manhattan, IL passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of Christine (nee Gilliland) Chaffin; father of Zac (Tricia) and Dylan (Danielle Deering) Chaffin; sibling of Rick (Judy) Chaffin, Bobby (Mandy) Chaffin, Kenny Chaffin, and Laura (Mike) Kozlowski, and the favorite uncle of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents James and Gloria (nee Halen) Chaffin.

Jim was an expert in maintenance. He served numerous well-known manufacturers throughout his career, fixed up anything needing repairs at home through the years, and passed down his skills and critical thinking in handiness to his family. In his spare time, he loved tinkering in the garage and riding around on his Harley. Jim was an avid fan of drag racing and always rooting on his favorite football team, the Green Bay Packers. He will be deeply missed as a husband, dad, brother, uncle, and good friend.

Per Jim’s wishes, cremation will take place and no services will be held at the funeral home. A Celebration of Life will be held privately at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com