Darrell “Lee” Lofton, 90, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Saturday, August 8, 2020 at home surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born December 11, 1929 on the family farm in rural Gibson County, Indiana, the son of Lee Earl and Mildred Irene (Wolfington) Lofton.  He married Jeanie Crane on June 24, 1998 and together they have celebrated twenty-two years of marriage. 

Lee was employed for many years by Dersch Energies.  Back in the day, he was known around town as “The Furnace Man” and often worked late into the night making repair calls to those in need.  Lee grew a bountiful garden each year.  He generously shared his harvest with family, friends and neighbors.  Lee was a good friend to many.  He had a group of friends who would gather, almost daily, either at his place or one of theirs to swap stories and discuss the world happenings.  Having been raised on the farm, Lee knew how to work hard and learned how to accomplish a variety of tasks.  He was always willing to lend a helping hand when any of his friends or family had a project to do.  Lee enjoyed traveling, most especially the Blue Ridge Parkway.  He and Jeanie enjoyed several extended adventures traveling in their motor home.  Lee had a love for animals, especially the small dogs he owned during his retirement.  He greatly enjoyed taking them for long walks around town each day. One last request of Lee’s would be to vote to re-elect President Trump.  Lee loved his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Lee leaves behind his wife, Jeanie; son, Steven Lofton; daughter, Lenita (Cameron) John; fourteen grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; step-sons, Freddie Crane, Steven Crane, and Eric Crane.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents; sons, Kevin Lofton, Robin Lofton; brother Lyonel Lofton; and sister, Carmon McGee.

In keeping with Lee’s wishes, cremation rites will take place and no formal services will be held.

Memorial contributions may be made in Lee’s memory to the Wabash County Animal Shelter buddies and may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Lee’s tribute wall, and leave a note of condolences for the Lofton family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com