Kenneth Edward Johns March 7, 1930 - February 14, 2026

Kenneth Edward Johns, aged 95, passed away on February 14, 2026, at Memorial Hospital in Carbondale, Illinois, surrounded by his loving family.

Ken was born on March 7, 1930, in Hurst, Illinois, the son of the late John and Jessie (Freeman) Johns.

Ken was known for his story telling, dry wit, and his words of wisdom readily dispensed. He spent 40 + years of his career in the insurance claims adjusting business.

In his younger years, he loved playing basketball and baseball and the freedom of running around his small hometown with friends. He learned to play the trumpet, inspired by bands of the time. Ken graduated from Hurst-Bush High School in 1948.

On December 25, 1948, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Earline (Plumlee) Johns. Together they shared more than seventy-seven years of marriage, built on love, hard work and devotion.

Ken enjoyed fishing, hunting and playing cards, sharing stories, and gardening – especially tending to his tomato plants. He became a tomato grower extraordinaire he loved to share his bounty.

Ken will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Earline Johns; his children, Jan Caudell (Wil), and Brent Johns (Denise); his grandchildren, Justin Caudell (Carolyn), Christina Fite (Jonathon), Danielle Johns (Lee Bristol), Nicholas Johns, Brandon Johns, and Alexa Johns; and his great-grandchildren, Brynn, Brett, Ryan, Charlotte, and Beau. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends that have been a blessing to him and his family.

Ken loved the Lord and was thankful every day for the life he was blessed to live.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon at First Christian Church in Hurst, Illinois. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 noon with Reverend Greg Parker officiating. Interment will take place at Blairsville Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in lieu of flowers to: First Christian Church of Hurst 108 Russell Street Hurst, Illinois 62949.

Walker Funeral Home of Hurst is entrusted with arrangements.