Benny Badgett

Wood River:

Benny Badgett, 79, passed away at 11am on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at his residence. He was born on July 29, 1945, in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, the son of the late Gary and Maxine (Fisher) Badgett. He married the former Barbara Jane Buckingham on April 25, 1970, in Cahokia, and she survives. Other survivors include two daughters and sons in law: Jennifer and Dave Curtis of Wood River, Stephanie and Matt McBride of Rosewood Heights, a son and daughter in law: Nathan and Stephanie Badgett of Edwardsville, seven grandchildren: Luke, Amanda, Garrett, Peyton, Jack, Paige, and Bo. He is also survived by a sister: Judy Dunn of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, a brother: Mike Badgett of Mt. Vernon, a sister in law: Carolyn Badgett of Mt. Vernon, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Benny graduated from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale with an engineering degree. He worked as a supervisor in the machine shop at Olin for over thirty years prior to his retirement. He loved hunting, fishing, and golfing. He will be remembered for his dedication for his faith, his family, and his friends. He was a veteran of the United States Army.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother: Gary Badgett.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 3pm to 6pm on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Funeral services will be held at 11am on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at the funeral home. Pastor Andries VanSchalkwyk will officiate. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Roxana High School Wrestling Program and will be accepted at the funeral home.