BENTON – Rudy Earl Stowers, 83, of Benton, passed away at 6:48 p.m., on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on October 23, 1941, to Elza and Bertha (Wiley) Stowers in Benton, IL. Rudy was a graduate of Benton Consolidated High School. He worked as a Class A Electrician with mine construction. On December 25, 1978, Rudy married Deloris Jane Williams in Hurst IL, and she survives.

Rudy was a United States Army Veteran, serving one tour in Alaska and two tours in Korea.

He was a member of Steel City Baptist Church. Rudy enjoyed gardening, working out at the gym and going fishing.

Rudy is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Deloris; his children, Paula (David) Newcomb of Yulee, FL, Rudy Eugene (Tabitha) Stowers of Nashville, IL, Amy (Jeff) Taylor of Benton, IL, Bobbie (Ruth) Wright of Du Quoin, IL, Frank E. (Amy) Wright of Benton, IL, and Laura (Chris) Wright of Makanda, IL; 20 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elza E. and Bertha A. Stowers; and six brothers and sisters, Floyd, Geneva, Johnny, Zella, Daniel and Ruth.

Services have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

A Celebration of Life will be held 1 p.m., Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Steel City Baptist Church, 9241 Crawford Street, Benton, IL., with Rev. Joe Zbiden officiating.

Per Rudy’s wishes, cremation will take place.

Memorials may be to Steel City Baptist Church and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Burial will be privately held at the Hill Crest Cemetery, Carterville, IL.

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.