Wilbert Eugene McCoy

Born April 29, 1930 in Tremont to Frank and Mary Francis (Bailey) McCoy, he married Carmen Holt on September 30, 1950 in Rochelle. She survives.

Also surviving are one daughter, Cathy (Warren) Key of Pekin; one son, Scott (Julie) McCoy of Pekin; five grandchildren, Chantelle (Brent) Walker of River Edge, New Jersey, Shawna Key of Morton, Allison (Kurt) Hutchings of Dallas, Texas, Josh (Amy) McCoy of New Braunfels, Texas, Jake (Kristin) McCoy of Pekin; five great-grandchildren, Larson, Lockton and Lincoln Walker, Lila Grace Hutchings and Spencer McCoy; one sister, Bernadine (Ted) Just of Pekin; and many nieces and nephews. Gene was also anticipating the arrival of his sixth great-grandson in July 2014.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters; and three brothers.

Gene had served in the United States Navy during the Korean War.

He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Pekin for over 50 years.

He had worked as a tree trimmer for Central Illinois Light Company for 36 years, retiring in 1988.

Gene was a member of the Pekin Moose Family Center 916 and a former member of the Sunset Golf & Swim Club in Pekin. He loved golfing, gardening and delighted in his grandchildren.

A casual Celebration of Life open housewill be held on June 29, 2014 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Pekin Country Club. Cremation rites have been be accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

The family would like to thank the staff at Pekin Hospital, Unity Point Methodist in the ICU and Intermediate Care, and Methodist Hospice for making his last days calm and peaceful. Also a special thank you to Dr. Usman and his Dialysis Team for their kind and compassionate care.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Tazewell County Resource Center at 21310 State Route 9, Tremont, IL 61568, to First United Methodist Church at 1315 Court St. Pekin, IL 61554 and Apostolic Christian Services, 107 E. Jefferson St. Morton, IL 61550.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com