Jerry Prater Sr.

McCLURE, Ill. -- Jerry Lee Prater Sr., 68, of McClure died Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2013, at the Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau.

He was born Feb. 7, 1945, in Gale, Ill., to Herbert and Ollie Elizabeth Busby Prater.

Jerry served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Japan.

He was a bridge painter. He was also a professional musician and played guitar in blues and country bands.

Survivors include a son, Jerry Lee Prater Jr. (Joey) of Pekin, Ill.; a brother, Herbert Prater of Thebes, Ill.; two sisters, Shirley Hale and Kay Hale of McClure; and a grandson, Caleb Lee Prater.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Bill, James and Verlie Mearle Prater; two sisters, Maxine Croy and Mildred Simmons.

Graveside service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at Rose Hill Cemetery in Thebes.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.