Lota Ray Kirkman

Energy- LOTA RAY KIRKMAN, age 76, of Energy, passed away at 10:11am on Monday, January 16, 2012 at his home in Energy. Lota was born in Herrin on September 28, 1935, the son of William and Madge (Kirby) Kirkman. He married Elaine Bender in Herrin on January 20, 1957. Together, they have shared fifty-four years of marriage. She survives in Energy. Mr. Kirkman was a retired coal miner. He was a member of the United Mine Workers of America. Survivors include his wife- Elaine Kirkman of Energy, IL Daughter- Kimira and Scott Benton of Stafford, VA Daughter- Sherry Kirkman of Miami Beach, FL Son- Randall James and Mary Kirkman of St Louis, MO 6 grandchildren- Amber and Reuss Bennett, Lindsay Benton, Krystina Benton and Douglas Vladimir Benton; Tyler and Nicholas Kirkman 3 great grandchildren- Blake, Samantha, and Emma Bennett As per Lotas wishes, he will be cremated. Private graveside memorial services will be held at Egyptian Memorial Gardens in Energy with Monsignor Ken Schaefer officiating. A Celebration of Life Service, for his many friends and family to honor and celebrate his life, will be held at a later date. Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin is assisting the family with final arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church. Envelopes will be accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home; 201 S 13th Street; Herrin, IL 62948. For more information, or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com