Ralph J. Kersey

Ralph J. Kersey, 82, of Rio, IL, died at 7:45 p.m., Thursday, May 18, 2017 at his home.

He was born September 21, 1934 in Kirkwood, IL the son of Rube and Lenar (Buster) Kersey.  He was raised and educated in Monmouth. 

Ralph served as a Tech Sargent with the United States Air Force in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars from 1952 until his retirement in 1973.

Ralph married Kathleen M. Spahnie in Viola, IL on July 18, 1992 and she survives.

He was a member of D.A.V. and the Nazarene Church in Galesburg.  He enjoyed old cars and going to auctions.

Survivors include his wife, Kathleen of Rio, IL; his children, Gayle (John) Saxton of Hemmet, CA, Brenda (Buddy) Samuels of Marysville, CA and Jackie Farr of Washington, IA; 9 grandchildren; step-daughter, Lisa K. (Blake) Simmons of Kewanee, IL; step-son, Roger Grant of Roseville, I; 2 step granddaughters and 2 step great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Mary Schisler of Monmouth and Sally Goff of Marietta, GA; good friend Sharon Barton of Rio, IL; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 8 half-brothers and 1 half-sister.

Graveside services with military honors will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, May 22, 2017  at the Viola Cemetery, Viola, IL.  No visitation hours are planned.  Memorials may be given to D.A.V.  McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com.