Gary E. Halford

Gary E. Halford 1931 - 2025

Gary E. Halford, age 93, of Cantrall, passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at his home near Cantrall, Illinois.

Gary was born on September 24, 1931, in Nokomis, Illinois, the son of Hallye and Eva (Yeaman) Halford. They both preceded him in death.

He married Carol Stites on August 6, 1951. She preceded him in death on November 25, 2017.

Mourning his passing are two sons, Gary L. (Janet) Halford of Palm Coast, FL, and Greg (Kayla) Halford of Magnolia, AR; a daughter, Linda Daugherty (Ron) of Springfield, IL; ten grandchildren, Shanna Hull, Michael Halford, Bryon Lenhart, Courtney Provart, Nikki Lenhart, B.J. Halford, Josh Halford, Rodney Halford, Bud Daugherty, and Brock Halford; fourteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by his son, Steven; in-laws, Howard and Cecil Stites.

Gary graduated from Pawnee High School in 1949 and later farmed in the Cantrall area alongside his wife, Carol, throughout their lives until they retired in 2000.

Gary and Carol loved to take annual trips to Texas for nearly 30 years. He enjoyed camping with Carol and his children and grandchildren. Riding his motorcycle was a passion he passed down to his children.

He was an avid St. Louis Cardinal fan throughout his life. He loved to watch NCAA basketball.

He was a proud member of the Athens Christian Church.

Gary also served honorably in the United States Navy from 1951 through 1955.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until time of funeral services at 12:00 PM on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at the Athens Christian Church.  Rev. Ken Gennicks will be officiating.  Burial will be held at Horse Creek Cemetery near Pawnee at 2:00 PM on Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Athens Christian Church, American Heart Association, or the American Cancer Society.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.