John Coleman McCamish

John Coleman McCamish, 77, of Carterville, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with Rev. Cody Knapik officiating. Military honors will immediately follow. Visitation will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

John was born on August 19, 1947, in Carbondale, to Wendell Ward “Bill” and Jenniev (Gentry) McCamish. He married the love of his life, Karla Sue Williams, on August 30, 1969, in Carterville.

He is survived by his wife, Karla McCamish; daughters, Jennie (Marty) Hagan, Melissa (Derek) Olsen, and Betsy (Curt) Mitchell; grandchildren, Emmy (Christian) Kampe, Grace (Bradley) Cawthorne, Charlie Hagan, Paul Cole Olsen, Tatum (Hunter Garner) Shoemake, and Bailey Shoemake; great-grandchildren, Henry, Levi, Maverick, Chapman Thomas, and Clementine; siblings, Mere Lyn (Carl) Miller, Becky Ann (Larry) Johnson, and Bradley Sam McCamish. He is also fondly remembered by special family and friends: Paul McHargue, Bill Lovern, Allida Plumer, and Jennifer Dalton, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who meant the world to him.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bill Stephen McCamish; and his lifelong best friend, Mike Plumer.

John proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War and was awarded three Purple Hearts for his bravery and sacrifice.

Following his military service, John worked as a coal miner for 13 years with UMWA at Barbara Kay and Zeigler #4 mines. He later served as a custodian for more than 13 years at Tri-C Elementary and the Junior High.

A man of deep faith, John was a devoted member of Crainville Baptist Church. He also belonged to the Blue Heron Boat and Yacht Club in Carterville.

John had a passion for the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, and was an enthusiastic participant in Civil War reenactments. He even appeared as an extra in the film Glory. For many years, he was affectionately known as the “Cannon Man” at Carterville football home games.

Above all, John will be remembered for his love of family, strength of character, and unwavering dedication to his community and country.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Coleman McCamish, please visit our floral store.