Keith Pritchett – Albion

94-year-old Albion resident Keith Pritchett passed away from this life Saturday, May 25, 2019 at Rest Haven Manor in Albion, Illinois.

Keith was born July 14, 1924 in Dana, Indiana to Orlin and Edna (Dixon) Pritchett. He was a graduate of Scotland, IL high school. Upon graduating at the age of 18, Keith enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served for three years during World War II.  Keith married Kay Thread on February 17, 1946 in Kay’s family home near Bone Gap. Keith and Kay enjoyed 72 years together on their farm northeast of Albion.

Keith enjoyed raising beef cattle and had a cow calf operation that is still ongoing. Keith served Edwards County for many years, first as the county’s youth counselor then was elected to three terms as Edwards County Circuit Clerk. It was during Keith’s third term as Circuit Clerk that he accepted the position of Edwards County Probation Officer. Keith served in that position for 15 years before retiring in 1989 as the Chief Probation Officer for the 2nd Judicial Circuit. Keith was a faithful member of the West Village Christian Church where he served as Deacon and Elder for many years. He was also a 75-year member of the Bone Gap American Legion and a member of the Albion Moose Lodge.

Keith is survived by his daughter Kathy and her husband David Lane of Albion and a daughter-in-law, Iva Jean Pritchett of Albion. Five Grandchildren, Shane Pritchett, Travis (Melany) Pritchett of Albion, Krystina (Aaron) Kelley of Troy, IL, Matt (Kelly) Lane of Hermitage, TN and Phillip (Melaina) Lane of Herrin, IL as well as 11 great-grandchildren.

Keith was preceded in death by his wife Kay and son, Ron.

Funeral services for Keith will be 11:00am Thursday, May 30th, 2019 at the West Village Church North of Albion. Burial will follow in Graceland Cemetery in Albion. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 am until service time on Thursday, May 30th. Keith had two caregivers that he was especially fond of and he wishes that any memorial contributions be made to assist these two special people in furthering their education in the medical fields. Memorials will be accepted at the church and should be made out to West Village Christian Church. The church will see that the caregivers receive the donations.

Nale’s Funeral Home of Albion is in charge of all of the arrangements. Online condolences may be given at nalesfuneralhome.com.