Charles H. ""Chuck"" McCray's Obituary
CHARLESTON, IL - Charles H. "Chuck" McCray, age 79 of Charleston, was in the comforting presence of family members when he passed away on Saturday, January 16, 2016 while at Hilltop Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Visitation for family and friends will be held Thursday, January 21, 2016 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston. Funeral Services honoring and celebrating his life will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 22, 2016 at the funeral chapel with Mr. Jason Walters officiating. Burial will follow in Mound Cemetery located in Charleston. It is requested that thoughtful donations in his honor be made to the Chuck McCray - Charleston Elks Scholarship Fund. Gifts may be left during the visitation or service or may be mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL 61920.Chuck was born February 9, 1936 in Cissna Park, IL to the late Harold and Thelma (Lewis) McCray. He is survived by Judy Simpson, his loving partner, companion and soul mate of 25 years; his loving and devoted children, Candy (George Hock) Davis of Mattoon, IL, Sandy (Joe) Sanders of Terre Haute, IN and Randy (Julie) McCray of Charleston; 5 grandchildren who lovingly knew him as "Papa Chuck" , Nicole Davis and Shanna Davis, both of Charleston, Jenny Sanders (Brian) Wulf of Terre Haute, Nate Sanders of Dubuque, IA and Mallory Sanders of Terre Haute; 3 great-grandchildren, Maddax, McKinzleigh and Arlo Davis, all of whom he adored; and several nieces and nephews and their families including, Connie Walters, Tim Pierce and Mark McCray who spent a great deal of time with "Uncle Chuck" . He is also survived by Judy's children and their families, Bekki (Rob) Atwood of Barberton, Ohio, Tom (Martha) Koons of Neoga, IL; and grandson, Jamie Poppe. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two brothers, Paul and Wayne McCray; a niece; and not only his brother-in-law but good friend, Jim Pierce.Chuck had a unique ability to relate to those around him with his quick wit and sense of humor. He made friends easily and established many enduring friendships through memberships at the Mattoon Eagles #3438, Charleston Moose Lodge #1388, Charleston VFW Auxiliary, and especially at the Charleston Elk's B.P.O.E. #623 where he devoted 50 years as a member, served as Exalted Ruler for three terms and spent countless hours doing whatever needed to be done to benefit the club. Chuck's heart and passion for agriculture and country life was reflected through his career and various other interests. He managed the Decker's Hog Market located south of Charleston for many years, enjoyed his small farm in Hutton Township, and has been a lifelong livestock dealer. Country and Western Music was his genre of choice; he loved his horses and horseback riding and looked forward to traveling to the many livestock auctions and sales he attended throughout the years.The past 25 years Chuck and Judy enjoyed many road trips to their favorite destination of Branson as well as Florida and other places of interest. They have also enjoyed many evenings on the dance floor and countless hours spent with good friends. Chuck's relationship with his family was always a priority. He dearly loved his children and grandchildren and his most favorite and memorable times were spent in their presence. His love for children extended beyond his own grandchildren and he was overjoyed with the close relationships shared with those who thought of him as a grandfather. The many times spent with family and friends are now treasured and comforting memories for the ones who dearly loved and cherished him as a companion, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend.Click to view Chuck's memorial video. SERVICES Visitation Thursday, January 21, 2016 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Adams Funeral Chapel 2330 SHAWNEE DR CHARLESTON, Illinois 61920 Funeral Service Friday, January 22, 2016 11:00 AM Adams Funeral Chapel 2330 SHAWNEE DR CHARLESTON, Illinois 61920
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