Gilbert E. Smothers

Herrin- Gilbert E. Smothers, 80, of Herrin, passed away at 6:30 AM, Monday, January 22, 2007 at Herrin Hospital. Gilbert was born on January 25, 1926 in Herrin to Lawrence & Irene (East) Smothers. He married his loving wife Sara Ann Balder on May 5, 1961 in Herrin. She survives in Herrin. Mr. Smothers was a US Navy veteran having served his country during both World War II & the Korean War. Once honorably discharged, he worked as an electrician until his retirement. Gilbert was an active member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Herrin. He also belonged to the Herrin Elks and the LCS (L) Navy Association. He was a lifetime member of the V.F.W. He was an avid supporter of SIU Athletics and he and Sara attended as many games as they could. Survivors include: Wife- Sara Ann Smothers of Herrin Son and daughter in law- Larry & Sherry Smothers of Wilmington, NC Son and daughter in law- Michael & Vickie Smothers of Indianapolis, IN Twin daughters and their spouses- Toni & Jeff Moake of Marion and Terri & David Shea of Marion Twelve grandchildren: Jason Smothers Josh Smothers Michelle Smothers Nicole Schoppe & husband Koy Twins- Jon & Chad Smothers Serena Smothers Lindsey Eaton & fianc, Mike Wilson Cody Moake David Lee Shea Kyle Shea Katie Shea Eight Great Grandchildren: Alex, Miranda, Kennedy, Alex, Elieya, Kate, Gavin & Ashlynn Nephew- Keith Davis & wife June of Bloomington Niece- Nancy Stoker & husband David- DeKalb He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Joyce Davis. The funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM, Thursday, January 25, 2007 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. Monsignor Ken Schaefer and Rev. Don Colson will officiate. Burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery. Military rites will be performed at graveside by the Herrin VFW & American Legion Posts. Visitation will be from 5-9:00 PM, Wednesday, January 24, 2007 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin with a prayer service being recited Wednesday evening at 5:00 PM and an Elks Ritual performed Wednesday evening at 7:00pm at the funeral home. Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home/ Post Office Box 429/ Herrin, IL 62948. For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com.