Johnny L. Junkins Sr.

John L. Junkins Sr., 95, of Mattoon passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at Oddfellow-Rebekah Home in Mattoon, IL.

John was born to Bert and Cleo (Akins) Junkins on March 29, 1930 in Noble, IL.

He is survived by his children, John (Kristine) Junkins Jr., Jeannette Junkins, and Chris Junkins; grandchildren, Bill (Heather) Ludwig, Joe (Shelly) Ludwig, Josh (Jamie) Ludwig, Jeff (Angela) Junkins, Megan (David) Miller, Ashley (Luke) Koshalek, Brittany Junkins, and Tyler Junkins; 12 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Patsy Phillips, Jim (Patty) Junkins, and Jerry (Leanne) Junkins; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Cleo Junkins; siblings, Bill Junkins, Tom Junkins, Bob Junkins, Galen Junkins, and an infant sister Ruby Junkins; and his longtime companion, Arlene Willmer.

John held several jobs throughout his life.  In the early years of his life, he worked at USI in Tuscola starting as a laborer, and then worked his way up to work in the PSL lab.  After several years at USI, he left to begin working at Douglas Transit in Camargo, IL, then for Ron Smith Trucking in Arcola, IL, and finally for Ecoff in Chicago.  Of all the jobs John held, his favorite was the one he held later in life with Parliament Motor Coach in Largo, FL.  He enjoyed the process of helping customers design their high-end luxury motorhomes, and delivering the motorhomes to the customers all throughout the United States.

Once retired, John spent his free time hunting and fishing at various ponds and lakes.  He loved his family and cherished the time spent with them.  He was also a lifelong member of the Villa Grove Masonic Lodge.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to SBL Hospice.

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