Osborn "Dobbin" WIlcoxson

Osborn "Dobbin" WIlcoxson, 80, of East Peoria, Ill., passed away at 6:38 a.m. Saturday Feb. 27, 2010, at his home with his family by his side.

He was born Dec. 22, 1929, in Cardwell, Mo., to William Jesse and Viola M. Michael Wilcoxson. He married Mary A. Reynolds in Pekin, Ill., on April 26, 1950. She survives.

Also surviving are five children, Jerry Wilcoxson of Leoma, Tenn., Timothy Wilcoxson of East Peoria, Patricia (Jimmy) Cox of Leoma, Tenn., Rick (Debbie) Wilcoxson of Peoria, and Bradley (Stephanie) Wilcoxson of Tremont; seven grandchildren, Brandon, Troy, Brent, Katelyn, Taylan, Morgan and Shane Wilcoxson; several step-grandchildren; one sister, Lucille Halm of Michigan, and three brothers, Tony Wilcoxson of Arkansas, Ralph Wilcoxson of Tennessee and Jessie (Karen) Wilcoxson of Michigan.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Valerie Ergle, two sisters and four brothers.

Dobbin was a hard worker, retiring from Kemp Mfg. in Peoria in 1992 after 25 years of service. He was a part of the East Peoria First Church of the Nazarene.

He liked being outdoors, especially to work his farm in Arkansas and his garden in East Peoria. All who knew him knew he loved a good laugh and had many nicknames for those he loved. He loved his neighbors and was always willing to lend a helping hand when needed.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 3, at Mitchell Funeral Home in Rector. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 4, at Harvey's Chapel Cemetery with Pastor Tim Livengood officiating. Mitchell Funeral Home of Rector is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be made to the East Peoria First Church of the Narzarene. Those who wish may sign the online guest book at www.mitchellfuneralhomes.com