John A. Prief

John Arthur Prief, 77, of Beardstown, Illinois, passed away on January 27, 2025, at The Grove Health and Rehab Center in Jacksonville, Illinois.

He was born January 22, 1948, in Beardstown, the son of Arthur and Betty (Schweer) Prief. He married Debora Donaldson on April 12, 1980, at the First Congregational Church in Beardstown.

John is survived by his daughter, Kristen (Brandon) Reed, of Jacksonville, Illinois; and his two granddaughters, Cora and Collins, who he absolutely adored. He is now reunited with his parents; his wife, Debbie; and his son, Justin; who preceded him in death.

John graduated from Beardstown High School in 1966. He was then drafted into the Vietnam War, where he served his country with bravery and honor. As a sergeant, he received many honors including the Bronze Star Medal for heroism, the Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight, and a Purple Heart for wounds received in action. After returning home, he pursued his education and graduated from Illinois College in 1977.

John began his career in the banking industry and then worked for CIPS before its merger with Ameren. He later retired from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity in 2010.

In retirement John spent countless hours volunteering, serving as Secretary of the Beardstown Elks Lodge for 13 years and assisting people in the community through the Meals on Wheels program. Above all, his greatest joy came from being with his family, especially cheering on his granddaughters at their many activities.

Per John's wishes, a private graveside service will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Beardstown with Military Honor's conducted by Guthrie-Pierce VFW Post #1239. Family and friends are invited to join an informal celebration of life luncheon at the Beardstown Elks Lodge on Friday, January 31, 2025 at 12 noon. Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been suggested to the Beardstown Elks Lodge #1007. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.