John Kirby Chaney, 83, of Mt. Zion and formerly of Urbana passed away at 6:47 a.m. on April 14, 2024 at Imboden Creek Senior Living Center in Decatur. He was born on January 20, 1941 in Monticello, IL the son of Charles & Flonnie (Henderson) Chaney. John was the first baby born at Kirby Hospital and was named after John & Mary Kirby the hospital founders. He married Linda Sue Dawkins on October 7, 1981, in Elizabeth City, NC. John is survived by his wife, Linda; daughter- Angela Force of Mt. Zion, IL;16 Grandchildren; 28  Great Grandchildren; 1 Great Great Grandchildren; brother- Charles Chaney of Catlin, IL. He is preceded by his parents, sons; William McDade, Brian McDade; daughters- Cheryl Bybee, Jennifer Chaney, Kendra Galbraith; son in law- Larry Force; sisters- Betty Black, Charlotte Ribbe, Linda Deaville; 1 Grandchild & 2 Great Grandchildren. He enlisted in the Navy and spent 24 years active duty. He received  the Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Navy Achievement Medal. John worked as a civilian employee at Chanute Airforce Base in Rantoul until its closure in 1993 and the USPS in Decatur, Illinois. He enjoyed fishing, camping, and spending time with his family.

Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 19, 2024 at Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 Philo Road, Urbana, IL 61802. James Blue will be officiating. Visitation will be held before the service from 12-1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be at Grandview Memorial Garden. Military Rites will be accorded. Memorials may be made to American Legion Post 634 or Patriot Guard Riders of Illinois. Condolences may be sent at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com