Benjamin Jacob Sorrell Sr.

Benjamin Jacob Sorrell Senior, 85, formerly of Danville, Illinois, was called home December 18, 2019.  Benjamin was born May 9, 1934 to Ernest and Roxie (Bailey) Sorrell in Danville, Illinois. He was the second born of eight children.

Benjamin was educated in the Danville School District and graduated from Danville High School in 1953. He was drafted into the United States Marine Corp. in 1954 and served in Korea. After dutifully serving he received an honorable discharge in 1957. After his military service, he worked for C&EI Railroad and subsequently relocated his family to Markham, Illinois. He retired from The Union Pacific Railroad in 1999. Affectionately known as *Ben J,* he enjoyed spending time with family and many friends.  Ben was an avid sports fan, loved fishing, listening to jazz music, jigsaw puzzles and was an accomplished gardener.

Benjamin was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Roxie Sorrell, Edward E. Sorrell (Brother), Clara Elizabeth Reynolds (Sister) and Karen *Kay Kay* Thurman (Daughter).

Benjamin leaves to the watchful care of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, his loving wife Roberta, and children, DuWayne Sorrell (Brooklyn, New York), Benjamin (Ria) Sorrell, Jr. (Lees Summit, Missouri), Cammille Sorrell (Lakeside, California), Kevin Sorrell (Milwaukee, Wisconsin), Sharee (Kenny) Barnes (Lynwood, Illinois), JoAnda (Phillip) Lillard (Lees Summit, Missouri), Reginald Thurman (Chicago, Illinois), Ronald Thurman (Milwaukee, Wisconsin), and Janice Thurman (Milwaukee, Wisconsin).  Sisters, Sarah Norwood, Ernestine Darnell and Kathleen Anderson, all of Danville, Illinois. Mary (Edward) Roebuck (Bristol, Virginia), Evelyn Anderson (Chicago, Illinois), along with numerous nieces, nephews and a host of grandchildren, great Grandchildren and great, great grandchildren. His children*s siblings Dale, Clifton and Mark Lovelace share many memories with the family.

A Home Going Celebration will commence at 12:00 Noon on Friday December 27, 2019 at New Life Church Of Faith , 1419 N. Bowman Ave. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Officiating: Pastor Thomas Miller. Interment will be at Danville National Cemetery. Leek & Sons Funeral Home 306 E. Williams in charge of arrangements.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.

                                  ~2 Timothy 4:7~

Condolences may be sent to www.leekandsonsfuneralhome.com

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