John D. Harrington

John D. Harrington was born May 2, 1916 and passed away on May 11, 2008, 9 days after his 92nd birthday. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Inez Harrington.

Although John D. graduated from Ridgway High School in 1934, he attended the following year studying business classes offered for the first time at that school. He was a lifelong resident of Gallatin County, Illinois and was a farmer for 42 years. He remained involved with the farming operation until he was 85 years of age. After retiring from active farming, he enjoyed his woodworking and became quite skilled. For many years to come, his family will enjoy his hand crafted pieces in use in their homes. He has been a member of the New Hope General Baptist Church for 72 years and served as the church clerk for 30 plus years. John D. was also a member of the Masonic Lodge.

He and Wilma Ramsey married on December 12, 1936. Wilma (Ramsey) Harrington, his wife of 71 years, survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Ladonna J. Oxford and husband, Gary of Omaha, Illinois; Betty C. Van Zant of Evansville, Indiana; four grandchildren, Tracy Van Zant-Zeller and husband, Jim Zeller of Evansville, Indiana; Dave Oxford and wife, Julie of Benton, Illinois; Kelly Van Zant Thompson of Winter Garden, Florida; Tom Oxford and wife, Lori of Norris City, Illinois; six great-grandchildren, Zack and Bethany Oxford, Colin and Lilly Thompson and Emily and Derek Oxford.

Funeral services will be held on May 13, 2008 at 11 a.m. at New Hope General Baptist Church, Ridgway, Illinois. Visitation is at Cox & Son Funeral Home in Ridgway, Illinois on May 12, 2008 from 4 - 7 p.m. Burial at Old Cottonwood Cemetery which is located less than A¼ mile north of his birthplace.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the New Hope General Baptist Church Building Fund.