Mr. Stephen A. Hendrix, 74, of Galesburg, Illinois drew his last breath on earth and began his eternal life in Heaven at 12:00 noon Sunday, January 24, 2021, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, Illinois.
He was born October 24, 1946, in Carmi, Illinois to Clell and Hallie (Caterberry) Hendrix. He grew up in Carmi until his junior year in high school when he, his mom and dad and two brothers moved to Galesburg. He graduated from Galesburg High School and attended Brown’s Business College in Galesburg. He served in the United States Navy from 1964 to 1965. He married Lois Whetstone in 1967 and they had two sons, Tony and Tim.
Surviving is his wife Lois of Galesburg, a son, Tim (and Dana) Hendrix of Galesburg, two grandsons, Jimi (and Mari) Hendrix and Eli Hendrix, a granddaughter, Sierra Hendrix, special great-niece, Gracie Hart, and three amazing great-grandchildren, Sawyer, Willow, and Hunter. He also had a special place in his heart for his buddy, Ken Sanner. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Stanley Hendrix and Spencer Hendrix, and a son, Tony Hendrix.
Steve was an outgoing, never knew a stranger, guy. He was known as “What’s His Name” at Steve’s Wholesale Tire on Grand Ave. Folks would come in just to have a cup of coffee and a chat around the fireplace. Before opening his tire store he worked for Prudential, Gates Rubber Company, and OMC Gale Products. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church for 20 years and cooked many banquets and rehearsal dinners at the church. He loved working with the boy’s programs. He was a charter member of Faith Baptist Church in Galesburg where he was the best potluck planner for 30 years. Most Sundays he was first to get there and last to leave. He had endless stories and didn’t mind telling them over and over. His passion in life was being a member of the Gideon’s. He loved handing testaments to 5th graders and students on campus. He spoke in churches about the need to spread God’s word.
Cremation will be accorded. There will be a celebration of life at a later time. Memorials can be made to Faith Baptist Church, Galesburg Christian School, or Gideon’s International. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Galesburg Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
