E. LaVerne McGeehon, age 76, of Monmouth, Illinois passed away at 4:48PM on Wednesday August 16, 2023 at his residence in Monmouth, Illinois. LaVerne was born on May 4, 1947 in Monmouth and is the son of Bessie Marie Arnold. He was raised in Kirkwood and Little York, where he attended school and graduated from the Little York High School. LaVerne was formerly married to Mary Chapman. He was a brick mason working most of his career with Ralph Messick for many years. LaVerne loved sports and was an avid Chicago Bears fan. He always loved to go fishing.
Surviving LaVerne is his daughter, Lula Berry and Lonnie,Sr.of Galesburg, Illinois and three grandsons, Eddy Wanlass of Galesburg, Lonnie Berry, Jr. and Jennifer of Galesburg, and Anthony S. Berry of East Peoria, Illinois. One great granddaughter survives, Jaiden Wanlass. Two half sisters survive, Joy Smith of Erie, Pennsylvania and Patty Ann Smith. and four half brothers, Bobby Joe Smith, Ray Smith, Roy Smith, and Michael Arnold of Little York, Illinois. He is preceded in his death by his mother, and two brothers, Charles and David.
His family is planning cremation, and a celebration of his life and military honors are planned at a later dater, May 4, 2024 on LaVerne’s birthday. Turnbull Funeral Home in Monmouth is in charge of LaVerne’s care.
