John Edward Whitson's Obituary
John Edward Whitson, age 78, of Auburn, IL, formerly of Pinckneyville, IL, passed away on Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at 7:20 p.m. in Auburn, IL.
John was born on September 9, 1944 in DuQuoin, IL, a son to Leona (Fulk) Benbenek and Edward Whitson. On May 15, 1965, he married Betty Louise Goldman at the First Baptist Church, Pinckneyville, IL, and she preceded him in death on March 13, 2017. John was a salesman for many years and served in the United States Air Force. He was a member of First Baptist Church, Tamaroa, IL. He loved a good story, rocking babies, vacationing in the Smoky Mountains, gardening, a good cup of black coffee and finding a rhythm in everyday life.
Survivors include four daughters, Lisa (Dave) Leehy of Orlando, FL, Tami (Dominic) Saebeler of Springfield, IL, Alison (Chuck) Jackson of Waverly, IL and Michele (Adam) Wright of Staunton, IL; nine grandchildren, Liz and Luke Leehy, Alec and Evan Saebeler, Tyler and Reese Jackson and Sarah, Jamie and Brandon Wright; three brothers, Jerry (Marian) Whitson; Jeff (Joyce) Benbenek; and James Benbenek; one sister, Joy Upton; and a large extended family.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 51 years, Betty Louise Whitson; his only son, Gregory J. Whitson; parents; and one sister, Janet Benbenek.
Funeral services will be held at First Baptist Church, Tamaroa, IL on Friday, June 16, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. with Brother Raymond Baggott and Pastor Mark Goldman officiating. Interment will be in Campbell Cemetery, Tamaroa, IL.
Friends may call at Pyatt Funeral Home, Pinckneyville, IL on Thursday, June 15, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Friday at First Baptist Church, Tamaroa, IL from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.
Memorial donations may be made to the Greg Whitson Memorial Fund or Campbell Cemetery Association for maintenance.
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