Richard Douglas Abell

Richard Douglas Abell, 88, of rural Carbondale, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at McKinney Hill Cemetery in rural Carbondale, with Pastor Jeff Wiggs officiating. Military honors will be accorded by the Army Honors Ritual Team, Carterville American Legion Post, and Herrin V.F.W. and American Legion Post.

Memorial contributions can be made to Residential Hospice.

Richard was born on May 21, 1937, Omaha, Illinois, to Richard Charles and Farrell (Williams) Abell. He married Mary Annette Jones on February 7, 1955, in Yuma, Arizona. Together they have shared over 70 years of marriage.  

He is survived by his wife, Mary Abell; children, Cheryl (Rick) Stevens, Scott (Barb) Abell, Jeff (Brenda) Abell, Kurt (Kelli) Abell, and Angie (Stephen) Sizemore; grandchildren, Chris (Vanessa) Stevens, Shanna (Dustin) Simonton, Matt Stevens, Heather (Cole) Castlebery, Brittany Abell, Megan Abell, Kaitlyn (Luke) Winget, Ryan (Lisa) Abell, Brandon (Dana) Abell, Joseph (Shelly) Abell, Tony (Kaitlyn) Abell, Ashly Abell, Derrick (Jennessa) Abell, Nick (Lauren) Abell, Karli (Blake) Vaughn, Tanner Sizemore; 21 great-grandchildren; brother, Gary Abell; daughter-in-law, Dana Eldridge; plus nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; son, Steven Douglas Abell; grandson, Shawn Abell; and brother, David Abell.

Richard honorably served his country in the United States Army as a Private First Class and was of the Catholic faith.

A skilled craftsman, he was self-employed as a carpenter for many years and proudly owned and operated Abell Construction & Trucking Company. He found joy in traveling out west, spending time outdoors, building “kit” planes, and relaxing at home while watching his favorite Westerns.

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