Ishmael Gerald English

Ishmael Gerald English, 94, of Eldon, Missouri, passed away Friday, June 2, 2017 in Olean, Missouri. He was born June 30, 1922 in Pike County, Kentucky, the son of the late Wilford Lee and Anna Murl (Hurt) English. On December 31, 1949 at Littles Baptist Church in Glezen, Indiana, he was united in marriage to Sally (Wilhite) English, who preceded him in death on May 9, 2014. Ishmael was a member of East Park Baptist Church in Decatur, Ill. and attended the First Baptist Church of Eldon, Mo. He served in the United States Army from 1942 to 1945 during World War II. He was a member of the 85th Division of the 403rd Artillery. He was employed with International Harvester for 11 years and then for 28 years with Caterpillar until his retirement in 1984. He enjoyed restoring old cars and spending time with his family. Survivors include: sons, Tony English (Debbie) of Olean and Barry English (Mary) of Decatur, Ill.; five grandchildren, Jamin English (Hilary), Laura Wirsig (Chad), Ashley Haupt (Tim), Airn Etherton (Patrick), Adam English; 11 great-grandchildren, Grant and Ethan English; Shelby and Jacob Wirsig; Abby, Ben, Isaac and Susanna Haupt; Rory, Adelyn and William Etherton; sisters, Kathleen Barrett and Wanda Houchins; and a brother, Dillard English. Visitation will be Monday, June 5, 2017 from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Eldon, Mo. with the funeral service beginning at 12:00 p.m. with Rev. David White officiating. Burial with Full Military Honors will be Tuesday, June 6, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at Gant Cemetery in Sharon Grove, Ky. with Rev. Tommy Wilhite officiating. Memorials in his name are suggested to the First Baptist Church Renovation Fund. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Phillips Funeral Home of Eldon, Mo.