TEXAS - James E. “J.R” Nicely, age 78, of LaFeria, TX, formerly of Greenfield, died Monday, May 11, 2009.  Born on August 6, 1930 in Greenfield, he was the son of James E. Nicely and Mabel (Burkert) Nicely. 

He worked as a construction superintendent for R. L. Wilfong for 35 years.  Mr. Nicely was an avid race fan.  He additionally worked at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for 25 years and O’Reilly Raceway Park for a number of years. J.R. was a member of the Indianapolis 500 Old Timers Club and was a former member of the Operating Engineers Union. He also served in the Navy as part of the SeaBees.

Surviving him are his sons, James Michael Nicely of Ft. Worth, TX, and Kim Andrew Nicely of Indianapolis; brothers, Don Nicely and Robert Nicely, both of Greenfield; two grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2009, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Erlewein Mortuary in Greenfield. 

Friends may sign the online guestbook at www.erleweinmortuary.com or e-mail condolences to sympathy@erleweinmortuary.com.