James "Jim" Timothy Bedford

James “Jim” Timothy Bedford, 69, of Sherrard, IL, died Saturday, July 1, 2017, at Generations at Rock Island, Rock Island, IL.

Cremation rites have been accorded and services will be held at a later date.  Esterdahl Mortuary & Crematory, Ltd., Moline, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jim was born on August 12, 1947, in Moline, IL, the son of Harold and Pauline Scranton Bedford.  He graduated from Rock Island High School, received his Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish from Monmouth College, and his Master’s in Education from St. Xavier University.

Jim worked as a Spanish teacher and substitute teacher for Rock Island High School.  He also supervised student teachers for St. Ambrose and was an adjunct professor at Eastern Iowa Community College, where he taught courses on exceptional children.  In addition to his work in education, Jim worked in sales for IBM office equipment and an appliance salesman for Sears and Montgomery Wards.

Jim was active in several churches in the quad cities. He was a part of a new church start in Moline and was very active at Faith Gospel Church in Davenport serving the homeless. It was common for him to buy some burgers and pass them out to those living on the street or under a bridge. Many times he would load up his car and take them to his church for a meal. Jim was a very generous person. His faith was based totally on the work of Christ Jesus on the cross. John 14:6

Jim appreciated nature. He cherished his flower and vegetable gardens and especially enjoyed homegrown sweet corn and tomatoes. Jim was also an adventure seeker who treasured traveling. He had participated in Ragbrai, ziplined, repelled down waterfalls, and completed multiple skydives. He loved the water-whether swimming, snorkeling or boating.

Survivors include his daughter, Erin (Mark) Needham, Maple Park, IL; siblings, Sharron (Jim) Ziel and Michael “Mike” (Cathy) Bedford.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.