Joel Bunch

Joel Lemont Bunch, age 49, went to be with the Lord on January 29, 2026, at Decatur Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his family and friends. This day also marked his youngest son's 22nd birthday.

Joel was born on October 24, 1976, to Joseph Ellington and Janet Harden Bunch in Decatur, Illinois. He was known for many things-his kindness, his humor, and the size of his heart-but he was most known for how deeply he loved his family. As a young boy, he spent much of his time with his younger sister and older cousin, whom he loved dearly.

Joel worshipped at St. Peter AME Church, where he joined in 1984. He later worshipped with his mother at Life Changers Church before moving to Springfield, where he worshipped at Westside Christian Church with his wife and daughter. Joel attended Enterprise Elementary School, where he received many awards for academic achievement; Roosevelt Middle School, where he played soccer and participated in Drama Club and Show Choir; and he graduated from MacArthur High School in 1994. During his teenage years, he served as a Peer Educator at Planned Parenthood and played football and soccer for the MacArthur Generals-when he wasn't "chillin' with the homies," because you can't forget that Joel was a real cool guy. Joel later returned to school, where he earned his Associate's degree.

In a journal written before his passing, Joel wrote, "I love all of my children more than life itself," a truth he made sure they all felt in their hearts. The most important thing he gave his children was memories of time well spent together. Whether at the park playing with cousins or at home playing games, he simply loved being with his kids. Joel also wrote, "I can truly say my mother is my best friend," a relationship he was more than proud of. His memory will live on through his mother, his children, and his grandchildren.

Joel is survived by his wife, Lisa Davis; his mother, Janet Harden Bunch; his mother- and father-in-law, Don and Linda Wilson; his sister, Janae (Patrick) O'Neal; his cousin/brother, Lemont (Meghan) Chambliss; his five children, Devyn (Chyanne) Bunch, DruAnn Bunch, Danae (Keeshon) Sayles, Tyrick Bunch, and Carly Bunch, his stepsons, Reece and Devin Davis; and his grandchildren, Leena Davis, Avrie, Aubrie, and August Behnke; Nami Craig; Sevyn Bunch; Keomi Sayles; Tykari Bunch; Saint and Soule Bunch; Leia Gasber; Kori Sayles; and Taylin and True Bunch. He is also survived by his special nieces and nephew, Jada, Jordyn, and Keylon O'Neal; his siblings, Karen Watson, Tiffany (Herb) Jackson, Latitia Bunch, Kendall Wallace, and Kristen Holder; and his brothers, Joseph Bunch Jr., Greg Bunch, and Sean (Billie) Bunch.

Joel was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Bunch Sr.; his grandmother, Elizabeth Diggs Harden; his G-daddy, J.H. Harden; his grandparents, Charles and Mary Bunch; his aunt, E. Ann Chambliss; his sister, Vicky Simmons; and his grandson, Devyn (DJ) Bunch Jr., whom he now joins in Heaven.