Ferris Stephen Jelks' Obituary
Ferris Stephen Jelks, 59, of Decatur passed away Monday, November 23, 2009 in St. Mary’s Hospital.
Ferris was born on January 2, 1950 in Decatur, IL the son of Harmon and Mary Jelks. He retired from ADM in 2005. He was a member of Life Changers Church. He enjoyed going fishing and gardening. He played football and ran track for the Stephen Decatur Running Reds from 1965-1969. He married Patricia Ann Ward on December 2, 1978 in Decatur.
He leaves not to mourn but to cherish fond memories, his loving wife, Patricia; mother, Mary Jelks of Decatur; children Wayne and wife Fauzia of Decatur; Suri Jelks of Jackson, TN; Tomiya Jelks of Jackson, TN; Mario of Rockford, IL; Rakia Jelks of Decatur; brothers and sisters, Harmon Jelks Jr. of Decatur; Mary Jelks and Gloria Hursey both of Bloomington, IL; Autry Mann and husband Ike, Ollie Jelks, Diane Jelks, and Terry Jelks all of Decatur; Helen Jelks of Chicago, IL; Mother-in-law, Ruth Dyson and husband John of Decatur; special cousin, Willie Jelks of Decatur; 11 grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family.
He was preceded in death by his father, Harmon Jelks and father-in-law, Harry Ward Sr.
The family would like to thank St. Mary’s ER and ICU doctors, nurses and staff for all their care. The family would also like to thank Bishop G.E. Livingston, Elder Otis Livingston, Rev. Robert White, and Pastor Russell Weise for all their spiritual help.
Home Going Celebration will be 2:00 pm Saturday November 28, 2009 in Life Changers Church, 1305 E. Prairie Ave. Decatur, IL with Bishop G. E. Livingston officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to service in the church. Following the service at Ferris’ request cremation rites will be accorded.
The family of Ferris Stephen Jelks is being served by Moran & Goebel Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2801 N. Monroe Street, Decatur, IL.
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