Cecil Ray Champion Jr.

April 29, 1951 - September 14, 2019

Cecil Ray Champion, Jr., affectionately known to his family and friends as “Manny,” passed away unexpectedly Saturday afternoon, September 14, 2019, at 1:10 PM near Tunnel Hill, Illinois. At the time of his passing, Manny had attained the age of 68 years. Manny was born April 29, 1951 in Alton, Illinois. He was the son of Cecil Champion and Thelma Louise (Farley) Champion. Survivors include: a child – Jacob Hill of Louisville, Kentucky; a sister – Patricia Kay Champion of Murphysboro; 2 brothers – Herb (Patsy) Chance of Ozark and Howard Louis Champion of Murphysboro; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Manny was preceded in death by: 3 brothers – Glenn Edward Chance, Larry Russell Champion, and Richard Wade Champion as well as a sister – Carolyn Louise Soper. Manny attended Vienna High School. He served honorably in the U.S. Army. Manny was employed as a deck hand by Ingram Barge Company. He was a skilled woodcarver. Manny was also a gifted pencil sketch artist. Visitation will be conducted Tuesday, September 17, 2019, from 5 PM – 6:30 PM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. A graveside service will follow at Woodside Cemetery, 1314 Harpertown Lane, Tunnel Hill, Illinois. Pastor Pete Slivinski will officiate. Military graveside rites will be accorded by the Beggs-Gurley VFW Post # 5222 and the Illinois National Guard Burial Honors Detail. Memorials may be made to the family to assist with expenses and may be left in the care of Bailey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 695, Vienna, Illinois 62995.