Jasper Joshua Nunn Jr.

Jasper Joshua Nunn, Jr., age 98, of Cahokia Heights, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, October 12, 2025. Jasper was born the eldest of 14 children on June 6, 1927, in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of Jasper Joshua Nunn, Sr. and Bessie Mae Nunn (Harris). He married Barbara "Bobbi" Nunn (Haywood) on January 20, 1949. Sadly, after 63 years of marriage, Barbara fell asleep in death on November 4, 2012. Jasper was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who took pride in providing for the needs of his family. His presence, including his kindness and his thoughtful words of wisdom, will be sorely missed.

Jasper, along with some of his brothers and sisters lived their early years in the East St Louis and rural Lebanon, Illinois areas. During his late teens, he worked long days alongside his father as a timber cutter to support the needs of their family. In June of 1945, he registered for the United States Army and honorably served during World War II. In the years to follow, he and Barbara began their family and raised eleven beautiful children.

Jasper was known for his strong work ethic. He believed in the value of an honest day's work. For most of his life, Jasper worked as a laborer and foreman for various construction companies. He made history by becoming the first Black member of the Laborers Local 670 of O'Fallon, Illinois. He remained a valued member in good standing for 53 years. This milestone reflected not only his skill and determination, but also his courage and perseverance in the face of many barriers and obstacles that were placed before him. Because of his honesty and commitment, Jasper earned the respect of everyone that knew him.

Jasper was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara, his parents, brothers McKinley Nunn, Alexander Nunn, Nathaniel M. Nunn, Harry Nunn, Sr., Freddie Nunn, Sr., and sisters Juanita Nunn, Julia D. Phillips (Nunn), Earnestine Nunn, Phyllis J. Smith (Nunn), Sheralyn O. Colvin (Nunn), and great-grandson Daniel Nunn.

Jasper is survived by his eleven children, Patricia Bryant of Fairview Heights, IL, Dennis (Cynthia) Nunn of Fairview Heights, IL, Nancy Givens of San Bernadino, CA, Cynthia Nunn of O'Fallon, IL, Damon Nunn of East St. Louis, IL, Vincent (Sharon) Nunn of O'Fallon, IL, Creighton Nunn of East St. Louis, IL, Rochelle Nunn of Cahokia Heights IL, Perriann Nunn of Cahokia Heights, IL, Eliot (Shannon) Nunn of Cahokia Heights, IL, and Kelly Nunn of Cahokia Heights, IL. Additional survivors include 41 grandchildren, over 60 great grandchildren and 30 great-great grandchildren. Also surviving is his sister, Margaret (Calvin) Mandley of Lebanon, IL, and two brothers, Stanley (Cynthia) Nunn of Calumet City, IL, and Terry (Agnes) Nunn of Springfield, IL, along with many nieces and nephews.

Jasper had a deep love for jazz and blues music and could often be found enjoying a good card game. He was a passionate collector of tools, knives, and antiques. He also found joy in reading, fishing, traveling, photography, and working on his computer.

Jasper was a man of strong principles that guided him each day. His life was a testament to integrity, hard work, and determination. His 98 long years were filled with warmth, laughter, and purpose. As a true hero in every sense, he leaves behind a lasting legacy of strength, perseverance, and love that will continue to inspire many generations to come.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.schildknechtfh.com.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., at Schildknecht Funeral Home; 301 S. Lincoln Ave., O'Fallon, IL 62269.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Schildknecht Funeral Home; 301 S. Lincoln Ave., O'Fallon, IL 62269, with Terry Nunn officiating. Burial with full military honors will take place at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Schildknecht Funeral Home.