Gerald “Jerry” Eugene Severns

Gerald “Jerry” Eugene Severns, 76 of Abingdon, passed away at 1:42 p.m. Thursday, May 26, 2016 at home with his family at his side.

  He was born on January 17, 1940 in Galesburg, the son of Cline and Norma Kathryn Kilpatrick Severns.  He married Connie J. Morss on September 25, 1959 in Abingdon.

  Jerry is survived by his wife of 56 years, Connie; two daughters, Jerri Lynn (Rich) Malone of Abingdon and Penny Jo (Shannon) Johnson of Abingdon; one son, Douglas Russel (Mireya) Severns of Peoria; nine grandchildren, Jared (Megan) Brown, Jenny (Lance) Dillie, Matt Malone, Mitch (fiancé Katie) Malone, Jacy Johnson,  Daegan Severns, Drake Severns, Alan (Crystal) Corder and Ashley (Michael) Corder-Kelley; four great-grandchildren, Campbell Brown, Ridge Dillie, Adler Brown and Elijah Kelley; two sisters, Debbie Watkins of Abingdon and Cathy (Ken) Klein of Marquette Heights; and in-laws, nieces, nephews and their families.

  He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, Norma J. Severns (infant), Donna Severns, Janet Miller and Joyce VanSkike, four brothers, Ronald D. Severns (infant), Rodney Severns, Kenneth Severns and Dick Severns.

  He had lived in Abingdon area all of his life.  He graduated from Abingdon High School in 1958.  He was licensed plumber.  He worked several years for his father-in-law, Russel Morss Plumbing and Heating, and later he owned and operated Severns Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning.  He also owned Severns Laundromat and Severns Hardware Store in Abingdon.  He was member of the Abingdon Fire Protection District for over 50 years serving as a volunteer fireman, captain, assistant chief, fire chief and he was currently serving on the Board of Trustees of the district.  He was a member and past Deacon of the Abingdon Christian Church.  He was a member of the former Abingdon Jaycees, the Abingdon Booster Club, and he coached Little League Baseball.  Jerry enjoyed many years of watching his son Doug, and watching his grandchildren participate in their athletic activities and school events.  He was an avid fisherman, hunter and Chicago Bears fan.

  Cremation will be accorded.  Celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, May 30, 2016 at the Abingdon Christian Church, 409 S. Main St. in Abingdon.  Rev. Darryl McDaniel will officiate.  Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday at the church.  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Abingdon Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Abingdon Fire Protection District or the Abingdon Christian Church.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.