Eli Hook, Jr., age 92 of McLeansboro, Illinois, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on March 2, 1934, in Gray Ridge, Missouri, the son of Eli Hook, Sr. and Edna McKean Hook. He was also lovingly raised by Ruth Durea Hook. All preceded him in death.
Eli married the love of his life, Joyce (Hon) Hook, on August 24, 1962, in Granite City, Illinois. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family and hard work. Eli was a devoted Baptist whose faith guided him throughout his life.
He proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, where he worked as a heavy equipment and tractor operator. Following his military service, Eli spent his working years in Granite City employed at General Steel, Valley Park Heat Treating and later Boeing, where he retired as a press operator.
After retirement, Eli known affectionately as “Hook” to many—returned to McLeansboro. There he spent countless hours on the family farm doing what he loved most, tinkering with tractors and enjoying the quiet rhythms of country life. Eli’s greatest joy, however, was his family. He treasured every moment spent with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and his legacy of love and devotion will live on through them.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Hook; his children, Sheryl (Brian) Evola, Ronald (Michele) Hook and Johathan Hook; and his bonus children Billy (Amy) Laycock. He is also survived by his sister, Janet Lientz along with many cherished nieces and nephews.
Eli was a proud grandfather to Christopher (Dacia) Voss, Brooke May, Allison Evola, Josh (Liz) Evola, Kyle (Karly) Evola, Kristy (Shawn) Townzen, MiRanda (Quinton) Lindahl, Dustin Hook, DJ (Shaina) Meskil, Jacob Meskil, Alyssa (Lane) Moser, Marissa Hook, Billy (Casey) Laycock, and Bryce Laycock. He was also blessed with 27 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son, Donald Hook; bonus son Bobby (Kerry) Weeks; grandson Justin Littlejohn and his siblings, George Hook, Harold Hook, Robert Hook, Charles Price and Ralph Price.
Eli will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his quiet strength, his love of farming and machinery and above all, his unwavering dedication to his family. His presence will be deeply missed but his memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation for Eli Hook will be from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Tuesday April 21, 2026 at 1st General Baptist Church, McLeansboro. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Bob Brocket officiating. Burial will follow the service at Blooming Grove Cemetery in McLeansboro.
Memorials are requested for the Shriners Hospital and may be left at the church.
Harre Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
