Jess Orland Hurst

Jess Orland Hurst, 84, of Peoria, passed away on Friday, September 1, 2023 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. He was born on November 14, 1938 in Coles County, Illinois, a son of Harold C. Hurst and Velma J. (Howard) Hurst. Jess married Patricia Ann Day on October 9, 1965 in Peoria. She survives.

Jess is also survived by his three children, Michelle (Bradley) Adams of Peoria, Rhonda (Burgit) Smith of Peoria, and Edward (Joy) Hurst of Forsythe; eight grandchildren, Taylor (Gary) Hegler, Jordan Adams, Peyton Adams, Max Smith, Annette Smith, Jacob Hurst, Abigail Hurst, and Alexa Hurst; two great grandchildren, Lillian and Evelyn Hegler; also survived are two sisters, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Velma and Harold Hurst; a sister Wilma Warner, and a brother Clifford Hurst.

Jess served his country in the United States Army between 1960 and 1966. He was proud to be chosen to serve in the Honor Guard (Old Guard, 3rd Infantry) in Washington DC. His barracks were across from Arlington National Cemetery. He proudly shared many memories about his service in the United States Army Honor Guard.

Jess was a member of the Gen. Wayne A. Downing American Legion Post #1111 in Peoria Heights.

He was a passionate Chicago Cubs and Bears fan. Jess was always happy when he was surrounded by family. He enjoyed family trips and family gatherings and was an avid dog lover.

Throughout his life, Jess worked in the grocery industry managing stores or as a food representative for Kellogg’s and Crossmark.

Jess's funeral service will be at 12:00 pm Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at the Davison-Fulton-Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria. The service will be officiated by Pastor Tom Eckhardt of Bradley Epworth Church. His visitation will be from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm also on Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial with full military honors will be in Springdale Cemetery in Peoria immediately following the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude or to Bradley Epworth.

Online condolences may be shared with Jess's family at www.Woolsey-Wilton.com.