Ralph W. Burgess, age 89, of Flora, Illinois passed away Friday, September 19, 2014 at Flora Gardens Care Center in Flora.

   Ralph was born January 16, 1925 in Collinsville, Illinois to Edward and Lena (Rekolt) Burgess.  He married Jessie Pauline Mefford on July 8, 1979 in Clay City.  She preceded him in death on July 30, 2013.   During his life, Ralph worked as a janitor at AMF Manufacturing, was of the Christian faith, enjoyed crossword puzzles and playing Bingo, and was a St. Louis Cardinal Baseball fan. 

   He is survived by children: Crystal Reynolds (husband Scott) of Flora, Shirley Mefford (boyfriend Bobby Molina) of Fairfield; 4 grandchildren: Brittany Reynolds, Robert Reynolds, Veronica Mefford, Jessica Mefford; special granddaughter: Grace Cotterell; 2 great-grandsons: Daniel Reynolds, Brayden Reynolds; along with several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, 4 sisters, and 2 brothers. 

   A graveside service for Ralph Burgess will be held at 12 p.m. (Noon) Monday, September 22, 2014 at Old Union Cemetery, Bible Grove.  There is no visitation.  Frank & Bright Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.