Obituary of Jerry "Jon" Eldred

Jerry J. "Jon" Eldred, 87, of Carlinville, Il passed away Tuesday morning, April 15, 2025, at Litchfield Health and Rehab Center in Litchfield, IL. Jon was born June 18, 1937, in Chesterfield, IL, a son of James Melvin and Nelle (Schuetz) Eldred. Jon was a 1955 graduate of Carlinville High School. He married Kathleen Martin on January 16, 1960, at St. Joseph’s Church in Carlinville. Jon was drafted in the Army in September of 1960 and he and Kathleen moved to Aberdeen, Maryland where he served as a light vehicle driver until August of 1962. He then served in the US Army Reserves until his discharge in August of 1966. Jon worked as a salesman in the agriculture industry starting at FS, moving to Area Ag and returning to FS before his retirement. He was also part owner of Fred Smith Chevrolet for a time. Jon spent many hours on the road traveling to sporting events. He was a regular fan at his grandchildren’s games and was known as Papa Jon to many of their teammates. He was an avid CHS football fan, attending nearly every game for decades. He also served as chauffer over the years driving his friends to many horse races. Jon’s love of golf came once he finally retired. He golfed with friends regularly and decided only a week before his death not to pay his Carlinville Country Club dues. He was a member of Ss Mary and Joseph Catholic Church and an honorary lifetime member of the Carlinville Elks Lodge #1412. Never knowing a stranger, Jon’s smile, laugh and kindness will be missed my many. Jon was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and brother Max. Visitation will be held Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:00 am at Ss Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Carlinville, IL. Mass of Christian Burial Service will follow at 11:00 am with Rev. Joe Koyickal, Sac as celebrant. Burial will follow in New Calvary Cemetery. Jon is survived by his daughter, Kim (Mark) Mehrkens of Pontiac, IL, son, Andy Eldred of Carlinville, IL, grandchildren; Alex (Brittany) Eldred, Madalyn (Caleb) Leach and Seth Mehrkens, great-grandchildren; Avery, Kali, Bella and Cece, sister-in-law, Polly Eldred, Carlinville, IL. and two nephews; Jeff and Jim Eldred. Memorials may be made to Loomis Cemetery in Chesterfield, IL. Please visit www.davisandersonfuneralhome.com to leave condolences or light a candle in his memory. Davis-Anderson Funeral Homes, Carlinville, IL is in charge of arrangements.