John Tack Babb

John Tack Babb, age 75, of Versailles, Illinois passed away at 5:50 a.m. Thursday, November 12, 2015 at Heritage Health, Therapy and Senior Care in Mt. Sterling.

He was born December 27, 1939 in Lincoln, Arkansas the son of John Tandy and Alma Vivian Comstock Babb. He married Beth Ellen Watson on October 13, 1960 in Lincoln, Arkansas and she survives.

Mr. Babb served as an educator, administrator and coach for over 20 years in Arkansas, Missouri and Illinois and was honored to have been able to assist so many students during his career. He also served as the Vice President of the Brown County State Bank in Mt. Sterling for several years.

John graduated from Lincoln High School in Lincoln, Arkansas with the class of 1956 and then received his Bachelor of Science Degree, Master of Education Administration Degree and Education Specialist Degree all from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

Mr. Babb served his country in the United States Army from 1961 until 1963 having obtained the rank of 1st Lieutenant. He then served for several years in the Army reserves.

John was a devoted member of the Versailles Christian Church for over 50 years having served his church in many capacities, including as Elder.

John was a charter member of the Versailles Lions Club. He also enjoyed gardening, but his greatest joy was spending time with his family and he especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s many activities.

Survivors include his wife Beth Babb of Versailles. 3 sons Chris Babb (Jodi) of Springfield, Illinois, Mike Babb (Chris) of Mt. Sterling and Nathaniel Mark Babb (Michelle) of Jacksonville, Illinois. 6 grandchildren Jordan Babb (Rachel) of Bloomington, Illinois, Jillian Taylor Moore (Gregory) of Los Angeles, California, Jami Schuwerk (Steve) of Mt. Sterling, Josh Babb (Carly) of Mt. Sterling, Molly Babb of Mt. Sterling and Caleb Babb of Jacksonville. 8 great grandchildren also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents and 1 sister Margaret Ann Babb in infancy.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 16, 2015 in the Versailles West Side Cemetery with Rev. Dale Gadberry officiating. A military service will be conducted at the graveside by the Mt. Sterling American Legion Post #374.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday at the Hendricker Funeral Home in Mt. Sterling.

Memorials are suggested to the Versailles Christian Church or the Versailles Senior Center.

Condolences for the family may be left on line at www.hendrickerfh.com.

The Hendricker Funeral Home in Mt. Sterling is in charge of the arrangements