Ben L. Kerley

Herrin- Ben L. Kerley, 84, of Herrin, passed away at 3:45 PM, Thursday, April 13, 2006 at Shawnee Christian Nursing Center in Herrin. Ben was born on October 26, 1921 in Marion to Fred & Mary Elizabeth (Emery) Kerley. He married Mary Ann Cappellano on May 16, 1953 in Carterville. She preceded him in death on December 2, 1997. Mr. Kerley served in the United States Army during WWII. When Sicily fell to the Allies, Ben was right in the midst of it with three other native Herrinites; Cpl. George Marlow, Sgt. James W. Hindman & Cpl. Bruno Delai. It was during this time that a photographer took the treasured photo of the heroic group simply entitled, Four Reasons Why Sicily Fell To The Yanks. The men said It was fun to get together and grin into the camera, knowing that the picture would eventually end up back in good ole Herrin. Ben was retired from the Illinois Central Railroad after working for thirty six years. He attended the Church of God of Prophecy and the West Monroe Apostolic Church. Survivors include- One Son and Daughter-In-Law- John and Melody Kerley- Herrin, IL Two Granddaughters and Grandsons-In-Law- Autumn and J.R. Dilbeck- Decatur, AL Brooke and Chad Banks- Herrin, IL Great Grandson- Carter Banks- Herrin, IL Several Nieces and Nephews Ben was preceded in death by his parents, his wife- Mary Ann, three sisters, and one brother. Funeral services for Mr. Kerley will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, April 17, 2006 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin with Rev. Don Colson officiating. Burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 17, 2006 from 10:00am until the time of the service at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home. For more information, or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com