Neil Albert Earnest, 81, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024 at the Villas of Holly Brook with his loving family by his side. He was born on July 7, 1942 in Jasper County, Illinois, the son of A. Wayne and Opal (Webster) Earnest. Neil married Barbara Isenburg on February 24, 1963 and together they enjoyed sixty-one years of marriage centered on their family.

Neil dedicated his professional life to a variety of roles: he worked at Shaw Construction, was an insurance agent with Shepherd Insurance, and passionately owned and operated a Hardee's restaurant alongside his own catering business. Before retirement, he devoted six years to serving as the Director of Food Services at the Lawrence County Correctional Center.

A fervent Aces fan, Neil was deeply involved in his community, notably serving as a Wabash CUSD #348 board member for twenty-nine years. His commitment to community service extended through his active participation in Parkview Christian Church and numerous civic organizations within Wabash County, where he was a respected and beloved figure.

Above all, Neil's favorite pastime was spending quality time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Known affectionately as "Pa," he was their most enthusiastic supporter and a source of unwavering encouragement. Neil's legacy is characterized not only by his professional achievements and community service but also by the love and support he bestowed upon his family.

Neil will be remembered by his wife, Barbara of Mount Carmel; son, Todd Earnest and his wife, Elizabeth of Mount Carmel; two daughters, Telisa Laws and husband, Jason of Mount Carmel, and Teresa Brown and husband, Bill of Mokena, IL; fourteen grandchildren, Shealey Greathouse (Laws), Levi Laws, Natalie Laws, Elliott Laws, Elijah Laws, Luke Laws, Sarah Laws, Tyler Brown, Connor Brown, McKenzye Earnest, Lillyianne Earnest, Vivianne Earnest, Skyler Pritchett, Kamden Pritchett; seven great-grandchildren, Landon, Nathaniel, Jackson, Isaac, Elliana and Owen Greathouse, and Henry Brown.

Neil was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Floyd, Norman and Donald Earnest.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Parkview Christian Church.

Funeral Services will be 4:00 p.m., Thursday, April 4, 2024 at Parkview Christian Church with Pastor Mark Richison officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Neil’s memory to Parkview Christian Church or Oil Belt Christian Service Camp. Envelopes will be at the Church or can 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 Neil’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Earnest family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com