Joel W. Jennings, 89, of Metropolis, Illinois, was born on July 19, 1936, in Rosiclare, Illinois, the son of Pervis and Euna (Riley) Jennings. He departed this life on June 4, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Aikins-Farmer-Loftus-McManus Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Larry Sommer officiating. Burial will follow at Metropolis Memorial Gardens with military rites.

Joel was a faithful member of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Metropolis and proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Following his graduation from high school, he continued his education at Southern Illinois University and later received a scholarship to the University of Notre Dame, where he earned a master's degree in mathematics.

Joel began his career as a mathematics teacher at Rosiclare High School and later served as principal. After relocating to Metropolis, Joel was one of the founders of Shawnee Community College and also served as Dean. He went on to found Metro Financial Group in Metropolis and remained active in the business until his retirement on July 5, 2023.

A dedicated community leader, Joel was a member of the Metropolis Gideons Camp and Kiwanis and served on the Illinois Community College Board. He was respected for his commitment to education, faith, and service throughout his life.

Joel is survived by his wife of more than 55 years, Marcia Jennings; his daughters, Kandi Kidd and husband John, Debbie Mize and husband Kevin, and Kristi Korte; his grandchildren, Lindsay Parkinson and husband Corey, Kristopher Jones and wife Caroline, Tyler Haynes and wife Lori, and Michael Kidd and fiancé Olivia Thomas; five great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; his faithful canine companion, Scooby; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter; his sister, Sue Craig; and his brothers, Jim “Poodle” Jennings, Randall Jennings, and John Jennings.

Memorial contributions may be made in Joel’s memory to Project Hope Humane Society, P.O. Box 125, Metropolis, Illinois 62960, or to the Metropolis Gideons Camp, P.O. Box 511, Metropolis, Illinois 62960.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Aikins-Farmer-Loftus-McManus Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.aikinsfarmer-millerfh.com