Billie Blue Kelton

Mt. Vernon Billie Blue Kelton, 85, of Mt. Vernon, passed away on Monday, January 9, 2012 at 1:10 P.M. at his sons home. Bill was born September 2, 1926 in Marion the 11th child of 12 born to Samuel and Ruth Ann (Walker) Kelton. He married Carolyn Joan Murrow on June 21, 1947 and together they have shared over 64 years. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII in Japan. He was a Cpl. With the 1st Cavalry 8th Regiment out of Fort Riley, Kansas. He was employed by Heyde Furniture in Marion before moving to Mt. Vernon. He then worked at General Radiator for 30 years with the machinist union until the business closed. Bill loved hunting, fishing, and camping with his family, and spending time with his grandkids and great grandkids. Survivors include; Wife Carolyn Joan Jo Kelton of Mt. Vernon Daughter Ruth Ann Wilbanks of Dyersburg, Tennessee Two sons; William J. Kelton and wife Marsha of Mt. Vernon Kevin Kelton and wife Melanie of Mt. Vernon Grandchildren; Grandpas Angel Jennifer Kelton of Mt. Vernon Dusty Kelton of Mt. Vernon Mirranda and Jada Breeze of Bluford David and Emily Wilbanks of Dyersburg, Tennessee Great Grandchildren; Tyler and Shelby Wilbanks of Dyersburg, Tennessee Conner and Rianna Clifton of Bluford Special Granddaughter Crystal Green and her daughters Kaitlyn Green and Liliana Nunez of Dyersburg, Tennessee Sister Lillie Barringer of Mt. Vernon Many Loving Nieces and Nephews Preceded by his Parents, Five brothers Roscoe, Bob, Carl, Jake and Lloyd Kelton, Five sisters Bessie Clark, Lucy Allsopp, Nellie, Grace and Ruby Kelton, Grandson Kristopher Kelton and Son-in-law Jimmy Wilbanks. Graveside services will be Friday, January 13, 2011 at 11 A.M. at Rose Hill Cemetery. Military rites will be presented by Marions VFW Post #1301, American Legion Post #147 and members of the National Guard Flag Detail Unit. Family and friends are asked to meet directly at the cemetery. Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion is assisting the family with the arrangements. For those who prefer memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois or the American Cancer Society. Envelopes will be available and will be accepted at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home, 800 North Market Street, Marion, Illinois 62959 or at the cemetery the day of the service.