James Tabor

James Andrew Tabor was born on February 15, 1951 at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in
Chicago, Illinois, to Walter Andrew Tabor and Antoinette Hilda Tabor (nee Procopio).
Beloved husband of 43 years to Patricia Tabor (nee Rudolph). Treasured father “Pops”
of James, Nicholas (Elizabeth), Anthony (Kimberly), Joseph (Elisa), Angela
(Christopher) Lappa, and Michael (Abbey) Tabor. Cherished grandfather “Papa” of
Taylor, Brianna, Skylar, Isabella, Sophia, Julianna, Luke, Penelope, Jacob, Evelyn,
Olivia, and Samuel. He was a loving brother to his sister Eileen (Daniel) Pajak and a
dear godfather to Laura Salvato and Peter (Susanne) Pajak. His life was made special
by countless aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, students, colleagues, friends,
and bandmates. James also shared a special bond with his four-legged companion,
“Loudog”.

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of James “Jim” Tabor on Sunday,
November 17, 2024, at the age of 73. Surrounded by his loved ones, he left this world
as he lived it—embraced by love.

James was a man of passion and purpose. His love for his family and music were the
guiding forces of his life, and he dedicated himself fully to both. A devoted husband,
James shared 43 beautiful years with the love of his life, Patricia Mary, affectionately
known as his “Cakes.” Their bond was a testament of unconditional love.

As a father, James was nothing short of extraordinary. He approached parenthood and
grandparenthood with an open heart, endless patience, and boundless joy. Whether
coaching his children’s sports teams, helping prepare for school talent or fashion shows,
or sharing wisdom through quiet, heartfelt conversations, he was a steady and loving
presence in their lives. To James, fatherhood was “an opportunity to re-live life again,”
and he embraced that gift with unmatched enthusiasm. His children and grandchildren
will forever carry the love, wisdom, and joy he poured into their lives.

James’ passion for music was equally remarkable. As a talented performer, he brought
audiences to life with his rich voice and magnetic stage presence. Later, he turned his
attention to education, first sharing his love for music with his own children, and later
inspiring generations of students in the community. James didn’t just teach his students
how to perform; he taught them how to feel it, connect with it, and, as he often said, “sell
it.” His lessons extended far beyond the classroom, instilling a lifelong love of music in
everyone he taught. He inspired the inception of the House of Music, the Tabor family
music store, in 2007.

When James wasn’t spending time with family, performing on stage, or teaching music
lessons, he was a trusted professional in new home construction sales and financial
services. For many years, he worked alongside his dear friend and business partner,
Joe Purpura, at Primerica Financial Services. He approached his work with the same
integrity, passion, and dedication that defined his life.

James’ presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit lives on in the family he adored,
the students he inspired, and the countless lives he touched. His memory will forever be a blessing.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, November 22, 2024 from 3-8PM at Colonial Chapel 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem Ave.) Funeral Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 9:15AM from Colonial Chapel to St. Julie Billiart Church, 7399 W. 159th St., Tinley Park. Mass 10:00AM. Interment Resurrection Cemetery, Justice, IL.

Memorials to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 are appreciated. CLICK HERE FOR ONLINE DONATION

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400