John A. "Tiny" Sherrard Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

John A. “Tiny” Sherrard, age 66, of rural Marion, IL, passed away peacefully at 8:19 a.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2015, at Heartland Regional Medical Center of Marion, IL. He was born in Herrin, IL on Thursday, March 17, 1949, the son of John Herman and Wanda Mae (McPheron) Sherrard. John attended school in Johnston City, IL and was a graduate of Johnston City High School Class of 1968. After graduation, he continued his education by attending Southern Illinois University’s VTI Program completing several courses. He was united in marriage to Karen E. Radcliffe on Saturday, January 9, 1971, at Karen’s parent’s home in Marion, and together they have shared the last forty-four years of marriage. John’s working career began shortly after high school at the Norge Company in Herrin, IL. Later he began his long coal mine career starting at Zeigler Coal of Murdock, IL east of Tuscola and later worked for Amax Coal of Keensburg, IL. He returned to Southern Illinois and began working at Morris No. 7 Mine of Crab Orchard, IL, later transferred to Morris No. 5 Classic Coal Mine of Pittsburg, IL and finally at Brushy Creek Coal Mine of Galatia, IL where he worked as a repairman and welder for many years until the mine closed in January of 2000. He attended Cornerstone Baptist Church of Marion, IL when his health permitted and was a member of the United Mine Workers Local Union No. 2420 District 12. In his spare time he enjoyed Harley Davidson Motorcycles and cars seeing how fast he could make them go, speed was always on his mind. When he was younger he built and drove drag race cars and after his son was born and got older he built Outlaw Sprint Cars that his son would drive in races. He enjoyed attending car shows and was always looking for that next special car as his next project to work on. He also enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially duck hunting with his son and many friends. Though he always kept busy with work and his special interests the most important part of his life was his family, especially his granddaughter, Abbi. He enjoyed attending the ballgames and many activities she was involved with always encouraging and supporting her. He is survived by his wife, Karen E. Sherrard of Marion, IL; son and daughter-in-law, John Carter and Missy Sherrard and granddaughter, Abbi Lynn Sherrard all of Marion, IL; aunt, Gloria “Aunt Dode” Barker of Murphysboro, IL; brother-in-law, Jim Radcliffe and his wife, Brenda of Marion, IL, other extended family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and stillborn infant brother, Gregory. He was preceded in death by his parents and stillborn infant brother, Gregory. Arrangements for John A. “Tiny” Sherrard were entrusted to Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 N. Court St., Marion, IL. The time of the visitation was from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 23rd, at the funeral home. The graveside committal service was at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2015, in Maplewood Cemetery of Marion, IL with Rev. Don Colson presiding. Those wishing to attend the service gathered at the cemetery prior to the time of the service. Pallbearers were Ron Janssen, Tommy Wallace, Doug Barker, Rodger Fox, Tom Murphy and Steve Barker. For additional information please contact the funeral home by calling 618-993-2131.

John A. "Tiny" Sherrard

March 17, 1949 - July 21, 2015

Obituary & Service

Flowers & Gifts

John A. "Tiny" Sherrard

March 17, 1949 - July 21, 2015

Obituary & Service

Share a Memory Below

Flowers & Gifts