Jerry Dean Chamness

On July 15, 2024, Jerry Dean Chamness, 77, of rural Lacon, Illinois, passed peacefully in his home. He was surrounded by his family. Jerry was born in Johnston City, Illinois on January 23, 1947, to Lawrence Lee and Dorthy (Raspberry) Chamness. He married Victoria Newhalfen, of Henry, on February 5, 1969, in Hennepin, Illinois. Jerry is survived by his wife of 55 years, Vickie and their 5 children. His children are, Scott (Karla) Chamness of Citrus Springs, Florida, Larry (Jodi) Chamness of Henry, Justin (Debbie) Chamness of Grabill, Indiana, Wes Chamness of Henry, and Shanelle (Brandon) Porch of Henry. Sisters, Kitty (Fred) Smith-Brockway of Roscoe, SusAnn Silva of Indianapolis, Indiana, Pam (Grant) Cordes of Lacon, Vickie (John) Neuhalfen of Henry, Paula Spencer of Henry. He was proceeded in death by both parents, two brothers, two sisters, and his little furry companion, Bandit. Jerry was of the Baptist faith. He joined the United States Marine Corp at the age 17. He served in The Fifth Division, stationed in Vietnam. He spent 14 months in country. He was employed at ESK for twenty years. Jerry owned and operated several successful businesses throughout his life. Jerry enjoyed fishing and driving trucks. His greatest passion was yardwork. He loved maintaining his yard, landscaping, and especially his fruit trees and garden. Jerry would receive a lot of compliments on his yard. He could never sit for very long, he always found something to do on his property. Jerry was his family's rock. He was always there to listen, and give advice, but most of all, giving help when it was needed. His greatest love was his family. His time spent with his wife, kids, and grandchildren, was his happiest. Family meant everything to him. At the end of the day, Jerry wasn't hard to find. All you had to do was look on the porch and you would find him there, sitting in his chair next to his wife, drinking a soda. He loved enjoying the day's end and watching the sun go down. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Jerry's wishes were in lieu of flowers, please donate to the Wounded Warriors Project. Online condolences can be left at lenzmemorialhome.com.