Published on October 22, 2026 3:13 pm
Last Updated on October 22, 2026 3:13 pm
Jeffrey Lee Niccum, age 66, of Newton, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at his home.
A service of remembrance will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 PM on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the Jasper Post #20 American Legion in Newton, Illinois. In loving memory of Jeff, memorials may be made to the family. Arrangements are under the care of the Meyer Funeral Home in Newton, Illinois. The obituary can be viewed and condolences left at www.meyerfh.com.
Jeffrey was born on August 2, 1960, in Olney, Illinois, the son of Rose Marie (Gasso) and Kenneth Tate. He graduated from Newton Community High School with the Class of 1978. Following high school, Jeff began his career in auto body repair and started working for Ed Shelly at Newton Body Shop. He worked at Newton Body Shop for over 20 years and later worked at Walk’s Autobody and retired from Ruholl Auto Body in Teutopolis, Illinois.
Jeff was a member of the Jasper Squadron #20 Sons of the American Legion and Moose Lodge. He was an avid sports fan and loved classic cars. He also enjoyed spending time with his best friend Chod Painter.
Jeff is survived by: Brother – John Tate of Newton, Illinois, Sisters – Leslie (Mike) Apple of Newton, Illinois; Kathy (Doug) Hawkins of Oblong, Illinois; Janis (Jesse) Riveria of Krum, Texas and Beth (Mike) Walker of Edgewood, Illinois and several nieces and nephews
Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, sister Lisa French, niece Tisha Nicole Green and brother-in-law Scott Green.