Kenneth J. Melear

Kenneth J. Melear, 88, of Sesser and formerly of Carterville, passed away Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at home, surrounded by his family.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 1, 2023, at Willowrest Cemetery in Carterville, with Robbie Church and Pastor Chris Hottensen officiating.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Carmi Baptist Children’s Home.

Kenneth was born September 23, 1934, in Eddyville, Illinois, to Merida and Effie (Morse) Melear. He married Jacqueline “Jackie” Rogers on July 15, 1967, in Auburn Heights, Michigan. She preceded him in death on May 1, 2020.

He is survived by his granddaughter, Heather (Joshua) Panzier of Sesser; daughters, Jacklyn Neuman, Janice Edwards, and Jeanine Lucas; and several other grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jackie Melear; and the last of his 7 siblings.

Kenneth was a foreman at General Motors for over 30 years, retiring in 1982.

He was a member of First Baptist Church in Carterville for many years, and most recently had become a member of the First Baptist Church in Sesser.

Kenneth enjoyed traveling, making crafts alongside is wife, Jackie, and most of all, spoiling his great-grandchild.

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