Hugh W. King

Danville – Hugh W. King, 86, of Danville passed away at 7:15 AM on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at Heritage Health of Hoopeston. He was born on June 19, 1940, in Danville to Shirley and Ruby (Nier) Blakeney. A few months after his birth Hugh’s mother Ruby passed away, and he was adopted and raised by Homer and Katie (Blakeney) King. He married Geraldine “Gerry” Davis on June 22, 1964. She preceded him in death September 18, 2012.

He is survived by two children, Brian (Julie) King of Dandridge, TN and Cindy (Scott) Burton of Danville; six grandchildren, Joshua, Jacob, and Caleb King, Tyler (Felicia) Burton, Cody (Sarah) Burton, and Megan (Payton) Mattingly; and seven great grandchildren, Paislee, Beau, KJ, Grady, Adley, Brody, and Logan.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Dean Blakeney, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

After high school Hugh started college classes until enlisting in the United States Army. After serving his country, he began his career at Bohn Aluminum in Danville. Hugh then worked for a time with the Supervisor of Assessment office in Danville before moving on to work as a Highway Maintainer for the Illinois Department of Transportation. In addition to this work, Hugh also kept busy farming in the area. In his spare time, Hugh could often be found watching a Western on TV, cheering on the Illini or Chicago Cubs, or watching football while maybe snacking on a little popcorn. Hugh also enjoyed working with wood and hand-crafted wooden toy trains, and his wife and Sally Potter Miller painted and made crafts to set up and sale at the covered bridge festival for several years. He and Gerry would take trips to Pigeon Forge and Branson, MO which they often did with relatives. Family was a big part of Hugh’s life. His grandkids were his world, and his greatest joy was attending their sporting events as he never missed a game. His favorite time of year was Christmas and Hugh especially cherished the quality time it gave him to spend with his family.

A service to celebrate the life of Hugh King will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL, 61834. Pastor Ryan Harris will officiate. Burial will follow at Sandusky Cemetery in Westville. Visitation will be held from 10 – 11 AM prior to the service on Thursday, also at Sunset in Danville. Memorials in his name may be made to Sandusky Cemetery.

Please join Hugh’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.