Benny Goddard, Sr., 86, of Dix, passed away peacefully at his rural home, surrounded by his family, on Sunday, June 23, 2024.

He was born January 11, 1938, in Jefferson County, Illinois, the son of Henry and Mabel (Simmons) Goddard.  On July 25, 1969, in Centralia, Illinois, he married Beverly Pickerill, and they shared 55 years of marriage.

Ben worked for Illinois Central Railroad for 10 years.  He was also a deputy for Jefferson County.  Ben also served as Road Commissioner for 20 years, served on the Rome School Board for several years, and also Raccoon Water Company for 20 years.  After retiring, Ben and Bev enjoyed many winters in Florida, and made many friends along the way.

In addition to his wife, Beverly, he is survived by his daughter, Nicole Smith of Dix; son, Benny Goddard, Jr., and wife Gina of Cabot, Arkansas; two children by previous marriage, Darla and Marty; four grandchildren, Cody Mellott and wife Cheyenne of Mt. Vernon, Casey Mellott and wife Emily of Dix, Allana Goddard of Sunrise, Arizona, and Aiden Goddard of Cabot, Arkansas; three step-grandchildren, Josh, Nick, and Rielley of Cabot, Arkansas; four great-grandchildren, Savanna, Sierra, and River of Mt. Vernon, and AddiBeth of Dix; brother, Gary Goddard of Dix; and brother-in-law, Philip Pickerill of Decatur, Illinois.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mabel and Henry Goddard; and sister, Roberta Garrison.

In accordance with Ben’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and a graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Gilead Cemetery, in Dix.  Memorial gifts may be made to the Salvation Army, and will be accepted at the service, or by mail to the Osborn Funeral Home, P.O. Box 130, Dix, Illinois 62830.  Online condolences may be made at www.osbornfuneral.com, or on the Osborn Funeral Home Facebook page.