Donald Wayne Calhoon

November 21, 1940 - February 8, 2021

Donald Wayne Calhoon, age 80, a resident of rural Goreville, passed away Monday evening, February 8, 2021, at 6:34 PM at the Heartland Regional Medical Center in Marion, Illinois. Wayne, as he was known to family and friends, was born November 21, 1940 at the family home near Goreville. He was the youngest of two sons born to Oren and Eliza (Crowell) Calhoon. On January 28, 1966, Wayne was united in marriage to Shelbina R. Montgomery at his family’s home. She survives. Other survivors include: their daughters – Melanie (Frank) Grizzell and Dana (Jeremiah) Pribble all of Goreville and Eliza (Tim) Arnold of Galatia; 5 grandchildren – Loren Pribble, Shelby Pribble, Andrew Grizzell, Wyatt Arnold, and Garrett Arnold; his brother – Dale Calhoon of Goreville; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Wayne was preceded in death by his sister-in-law – Marlene Calhoon. Wayne was a 1958 graduate of Goreville High School. During his senior year, he received the FFA State Farmer Degree. Wayne attended John Deere mechanic school and was employed for a time as a mechanic at the Lloyd McMichael John Deere dealership in Marion, Illinois. Beginning in 1965, Wayne devoted himself to full-time farm operation. He had a love of the land and took great pride in farming. He was a member of the Williamson County Farm Bureau and the American Angus Association. Wayne enjoyed his tractors and raising cattle. Wayne cherished time spent with his family and was especially encouraging of his grandchildren’s athletic and 4-H activities. He enjoyed attending 4-H youth activities, county fairs and competitions. For many years, Wayne faithfully watched the Shepherd’s Chapel television ministry and drew much encouragement and insight from it’s teaching. A walk-thru visitation will be conducted Thursday, February 11, 2021, from 10 AM – 12:30 PM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. A private graveside service will be conducted at Mosley Cemetery north of Goreville. Pastor Gorden Montgomery will officiate. The preferred form of remembrance would be memorial donations to the Goreville High School FFA Program, 201 South Ferne Clyffe Drive, Goreville, IL 62939. Those attending the visitation are reminded to observe customarily accepted social distancing guidelines. The wearing of a face mask or covering is strongly encouraged.