Johnny Ray Farmer, Sr.

Johnny Ray Farmer, Sr., 60, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, died suddenly at his home on October 15, 2013. He was born January 17, 1953, in Harrisburg, Illinois, the son of Orville Hamilton and Sylvia Irene Farmer. He was married to Sue (Keepes) Farmer, and she survives.

John, along with his wife, Sue, was a commercial fisherman and owner and operator of the Hard Times Fish Market and the Fish House Restaurant located on the riverfront in Grayville. The Fish House, for many years, was a Grayville institution drawing customers from miles around the tri-state area. Many of his fellow motorcycle enthusiasts would ride to Grayville for fellowship and dining on Johns fish and various side dishes.

John was a loving grandfather, and enjoyed his grandchildren above all else. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and motorcycling. He was a member of ABATE.

Survivors include his wife Sue of Mt. Carmel; sons Johnny Ray (Charity) Farmer, Jr., of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, Eric (Misty) Farmer of Colfax, Louisiana; half-brother Richard Collard, Jr.; half-sister Patty Daugherty; grandchildren Raeann and Natalie Farmer.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation and funeral will be Friday, October 18, 2013, at Cook Funeral Chapel in Grayville. Visitation is at 9 am and funeral is at 11:30 am. Burial will be in Antioch Cemetery near Cowling, Illinois.

In keeping with Johns wishes, those attending the visitation and funeral are asked to dress Fish House Appropriate.

Visitation: Cook Funeral Chapel Grayville, October 18, 2013 - 9am

Service: Cook Funeral Chapel Grayville, October 18, 2013 - 11:30am