George “Junior” Elam, 84, of Mulberry Grove, IL passed away at 9:39 PM, Tuesday, June 13, 2017 at HSHS Holy Family Hospital in Greenville, IL.
Cremation rites will be accorded. A memorial service in honor of Mr. Elam will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, June 19, 2017 at the First Baptist Church in Mulberry Grove with Pastor Benji Potter officiating. A visitation will be held from 9:00- 11:00 AM, Monday, June 19, 2017 prior to services at the church. Burial will follow at Liberty Cemetery, Mulberry Grove with military rites accorded at the graveside by American Legion Post #1180. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Mulberry Grove or to the family. Online tributes may be left at www.hohltandfilefh.com.
George “Junior” Elam was born September 2, 1932 in Bear Grove Township, the son of George W. and Edna B. (Kleinik) Elam. He married Neva Ilene Wright on February 24, 1957. He served in the US Army during the Korean War. Junior was the owner/operator of JR ELAM Feed Hauling for Purina Mills Inc. in Vandalia for nearly 50 years. He enjoyed watching Cardinal baseball and gardening. Junior was also a member of the Mulberry Grove American Legion Post #1180 and Vandalia VFW Post #3862.
Mr. Elam is survived by his wife Neva Elam of Mulberry Grove; sons Brent Elam of Mulberry Grove and Kent Elam of Portland, IN; brother Ronnie Elam and wife Millie of Vandalia; sisters Evelyn Hecht of Chester, IL and Anna Keeling and husband Russell of Lowry City, MO; grandchildren Richie Romine, Sylinda Elam, Sharon Elam, and Cory Elam; and great grandchildren Kaleb Elam and Zoe Romine.
He was preceded in death by his parents George W. and Edna B. (Kleinik) Elam, brother Donnie Elam, and sister Doris Elam.