Ernest Smith

Ernest Smith, 89, of Sidell, IL, passed away December 22, 2012 at Sunset Manor, Canton. He was born February 2, 1923 in Metcalf, IL to Virgil L. and Zella Rose (Ketchum) Smith. He married Merrilee Burd on December 2, 1945. She preceded him in death. Ernest was a member of the Sidell Sportsman's Club, UAW Local 579 and Ridge Farm Friends Church. He was a farmer and retired from General Motors in 1976. Ernest is survived by one son, Donald L. Smith (Glenda); one daughter, Merriletta Hayes; five grandchildren, Clint Smith (Martina), Rob Murphy (Sherri), Jason Smith (Ashley), William H. Hayes Jr. (Emily) and Jamie L. Hayes (Lisa); five great grandchildren, Brianna Hayes, Cody and Hailey Murphy, Dalton and Drake Smith; one sister, Virginia M. Stanton; brothers in law, Ervin Burd and Eddie Burd. He was preceded in death by one son, Ronald G. Smith, one sister, Viola Greenlee and one son in-law, Bill Hayes. A celebration of Ernest's life will be held at 11:00 am Friday, December 28, 2012, at Sunset Funeral Home, Danville, with Pastor Raymie Gordon officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 am on Friday. He will be laid to rest in Crown Hill Cemetery, Ridge Farm, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given in his name to Ridge Farm Friends Church or Cuba Senior Center.