Jerry Brant

CHARLESTON – Jerry Lee Brant passed away Saturday, June 8, 2024, at his Harmony Center home, Mattoon, Illinois

Jerry was born December 21, 1930 to Herman and Irene (Light) Brant.  He graduated Charleston High School with the Class of 1948.

Jerry joined the U.S. Navy, January 9, 1950, serving until November 15, 1954, as a radioman aboard the USS Chanticleer (ASR-7) Submarine Squadron 3.  He earned the Good Conduct Medal, the Korean Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the United Service Medal.  He worked thirty-four years for the (then) US Industrial Petroleum Chemical Company, Tuscola, IL.

Jerry is survived by his wife, the former Brenda Blair, his daughter, Marsha Sue (Steve) Carmichael, sons, Kim and Kevin Brant and their families.  Also surviving are grandson, Darby (Julie) Carmichael, great-grandsons, Braden and Easton, stepsons, Blair (Theresa) Prince, Chuck (Laura) Prince, grandchildren, Zachary, Beth, Jenna (Chris), Matt (Juliana), and a great-granddaughter, Katy Jane.  Brother, Ronald (Nancy) Brant, nephews, Rick (Rhonda), Alan, several cousins, and his church family also survive.

Jerry was an active member of the Charleston Providence Separate Baptist Church, having served as Trustee and a member of the men's trio for many years.  He enjoyed NASCAR, the Dodgers, both in Brooklyn and Los Angeles, the Oklahoma Sooners, the Fighting Illini, the Charleston Trojans and any activities his grandchildren or great-grandchildren were participating in.  Jerry participated in micro midget racing from 1959 to 1964, finishing fifth in the nation in points in 1964.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Jerry's church, Charleston Providence Separate Baptist Church, Attn: Lee Lineberry, 3 West Washington Street, Charleston, IL  61920; the Trojan Booster Club, or to Harmony Center, c/o Odd Fellow Rebekah Home, 201 Lafayette Avenue E, Mattoon, IL (should designate musical performance, outdoor furniture, etc.)

Jerry's family is deeply and sincerely appreciative of the staff, nurses, and aides of Harmony Center who cared for Jerry for over two years.  Their loving care and attention to his every need will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (NOON) Saturday, June 15, 2024 at the Harper-Swickard Funeral Home, Charleston.  His graveside funeral with military rites by Paul McVey V.F.W. Post #1593 and its' Auxiliary and Charleston American Legion Post #93, will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Janesville Cemetery.