Edward O Anderson

EDWARD ANDERSON

GRAFTON - Edward Orland Anderson, 77, born on December 10, 1946, passed away peacefully at his home on December 3, 2024, just shy of his 78th birthday.

Eddie was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose life was marked by dedication to family, service and community.

Eddie attended Grafton Grade School, and graduated from Jersey Community High School in 1964.  He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1970, a testament to his commitment to his country, stationed in Texas, Illinois and Missouri.

On July 3, 1966 at the Grafton Methodist Church, he married the love of his life, Patty Sue Campbell, with whom he has shared 58 wonderful years, mostly in the rural Grafton home they built starting in 1971.  Together, they raised two children, Suzanne Michell Robinson, married to Eric Robinson of Glen Carbon and Brian Edward Anderson, married to Amanda Anderson of Ladue, Mo., and were blessed with eight grandchildren, Wyatt, Ashlee, Kristina, Claire, Brooke, Reagan, Jack and Chloe.

Eddie pursued further education, earning an Associate's Degree from Lewis & Clark Community College in Godfrey in 1977.  His professional journey included roles at Piasa Lincoln Mercury, Hutton Ford, State Farm Insurance Company, C.J. Auto Body, and Freer Auto Body, where he was known for his dedication and tireless work ethic.

Eddie was an active member of the Grafton American Legion #648, Fat Boys of Illinois (FBI) Car Club, and the Jersey County Street Machines.  His faith was an integral part of his life, and he was a devoted attendee and supporter of the Grafton Methodist Church.  He was an active proponent of little league baseball during Brian's youth, serving as coach for many seasons and overseeing fundraising for field lights and other improvements.

A man with little time for hobbies, Eddie spent his free moments working on his many cars and on home improvement projects.  In retirement, he and Patty renovated Eddie's childhood home and ran a bed and breakfast of sorts that he titled "Andora",  which earned five star reviews of VRBO.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Patty, his sister, Valerie Anderson, his brother in-law and sister in-law, Bill and Donna Shenberger, his children, seven grandchildren, and many other family members and friends who will continue to honor his legacy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Ora (Bowling) Anderson, his in-laws, Willie and Dora Mae Campbell, his brothers, Kenny and Richard, his sister, Norma, his grandson, Wyatt, and nephew, Don.

Visitation for Eddie will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Thursday at Grafton Methodist Church.

He will be laid to rest in the Scenic Hill Cemetery in Grafton, with the Grafton American Legion Post #648 conducting military graveside rites.

Memorials may be given to the Grafton Methodist Church or the Grafton American Legion.

Eddie's granddaughter rightfully labeled him a Grafton celebrity.  He was known around town as dependable for a smile, a good conversation and a helping hand for anyone in need.  Eddie's life was a testament to love, service, and community, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Memories may be shared at www.crawfordfunerals.com.

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