Pekin paper, February 19, 1954

Lester Crafton Dies Friday In Hospital
Following an illness of a month's duration, Lester F. Crafton, 59, of Pekin, an employe of Standard Brands Co., died at 6:40 a.m. today [February 19, 1954] at Pekin hospital and the body was taken to the Preston funeral home.

Born in Mason county on March 30, 1894, he was the son of Lee R. and Molly {Moore} Crafton. His marriage to Greta Black took place in Beardstown, Ill., on April 29, 1926

Surviving are his wife and the following four children: Mrs. William Graffis, Harold Crafton, Sharon Kay Crafton and Robert Eugene Crafton, all of Pekin.

Also surviving are a half brother, Floyd Crafton and a half sister, Mrs. Lela Pendergraft and his step-mother, Mrs. Jessie {Gossage} Crafton, all of Beardstown. There is also on grandchild.

He was a member of the Calvary Baptist church and services are to be held there Monday at 1:30 p.m. with the Rev. Hubert Entwisle officiating. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens.

Friends may call at the Preston funeral home Saturday and until 11 a.m. Monday when the body will be taken to the church to lie in state until time of service.

Contributed by: Donna (Singleton) Yavorshak & Sara Hemp