Edward "Edd" Allen Staton, 88, passed away March 29, 2016 at 2:40 p.m. at his home outside New Columbia, IL with his family, friends, caregivers and pastor by his side. He was born on October 15, 1927 in Massac County, IL to Tom and Arbie Sharpe Staton as the youngest of the sons. Edd graduated from Black Hill Grade School in 1942 and attended New Columbia High School, but at the age of 17 left school and enlisted into the U.S. Navy in June 1945. He completed his GED in 1962. He was discharged from the Navy in October 1948, and began working construction for Ebasco and Dougherty Company. In March 1955, he began his career at EEI. While at EEI, he worked in the Coal Handling Department as a Junior and Senior Operator, and as a Plant Mechanic in the Maintenance Department. He retired after 33 years in August 1988. During his years at EEI, he raised cattle, tended crops, and made hay. Edd was married to Cleta "June" Oliver on October 25, 1952 at New Hope Baptist Church living initially in New Columbia before moving to their home and farm on Staton Ridge Road where they raised their 3 children. In 1977, they built their present home on several acres of his home place property. Once retired, Edd did not sit idly by. He stayed very active, especially in his woodshop, making numerous items for family and friends. You could show him a picture of what you wanted, tell him the dimensions, type of wood and finish you wanted, and he would have it made in no time. There are numerous families around the county that have his craftsmanship in their homes. He also kept a garden and orchard, especially watermelons and muskmelons, liked to hunt, and watching sports on TV. He was very generous in giving away the fruits of his labor. That was just how Edd was. At one time, he played on the softball team for EEI. He always had time for his grandchildren, showing them around the farm, playing ball with them, or just spending time. He was saved and became a member of the New Hope Baptist Church near New Columbia in the early 1950's, and served as a deacon for many years. He was a member of the Disaster Relief team from Metropolis, working with them locally and traveling to Louisiana and Alabama to help after the hurricanes. He taught in Vacation Bible School, was an avid member of the NRA, and a lifetime member of the New Columbia Masonic Lodge. Edd was able to enjoy all of these activities as well as many family and church get togethers until December 2011 when vacular dementia took that all away from him. He had another episode in October 2015, from which he rapidly declined. He was cared for at home by his family and caregivers, Ann Burton and Patty Hunerkoch, as well as Lourdes Hospice Care. Edd is survived by his wife, June, of 63 years; 1 sister, Dora Jane Staton of Paducah; 3 children, Bruce (Debbie) Staton, and Brenda Rushing of New Columbia, and Mark (Twila) Staton of Brownfield, IL; 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers, Roy and Morris "Waldon" Staton; 2 sisters, Alta Mae Staton and Mary Oglesby; and a son in law, Craig Rushing. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 1, 2016, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, April 2, 2016 from 9:00 a.m. until the funeral hour at the Aikins-Farmer Funeral Home in Metropolis. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 2, 2016, at the Aikins-Farmer Funeral Home in Metropolis with Rev. Frank Forthman and Terry Mathis officiating. Burial will follow in the Metropolis Memorial Gardens with military rites. Memorial contributions may take the form of donations to the Alzheimer's Association Great Illinois Chapter 320 E. Walnut, Ste. A Carbondale, IL 62901 or the American Cancer Society 4503 W. DeYoung St. Ste 200 C Marion, IL 62959. Online condolences may be left at www.aikinsfarmer-millerfh.com. Pallbearersa