Aline Ruth Hernbeck

Herrin- Aline Ruth Hernbeck, 93, of Herrin, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at 11:45 PM, Tuesday, March 26, 2019 at Herrin Hospital.

Aline was born on November 4, 1925 in Higginson, Arkansas to Edward “Blue” and Verdie (Cobb) Barlow.  She married Robert “Bob” Eugene Hernbeck on June 12, 1943 in Herrin.  They were married 67 years until he preceded her in death on January 15, 2011. 

Aline and Bob raised their four children in Energy First Baptist Church and attended regularly until her health declined last year.  The family sang specials at the church for many years.  Aline always sang looking up towards Heaven.  She was a God fearing Christian woman who would often kneel to pray for those in need.  She taught her family to love the Lord, treat others with respect and to always do their best. She was a “hugger” and wouldn’t let you go without telling you she “loved ya”! 

In her spare time she enjoyed following the ups and downs of her beloved St. Louis Cardinals and would share equally, just as her husband Bob did, her disgust or elation over their current losing or winning streaks.  She will be dearly missed.

Survivors include-

Son- Gary Hernbeck and wife Sheila of Herrin

Daughter- Cheryl Knott and husband Don of Terra Haute, IN

Daughter- Patricia Duncan and husband Dale of Herrin

Daughter- Crystal Ritchason and husband Gary of Jasper, AL

Eleven grandchildren:

                Scott Hernbeck                 Tanya Pierce                      Sadie Hunsaker

                Michelle Hudson              Teresa Batchelor              Tara Hatley

                Devin Duncan                    Terry Duncan                     Billy Duncan

                Lindsay Ritchason            Joseph Ritchason

26 great grandchildren

10 great great grandchildren

Brothers in law- Don Hernbeck and Lloyd Hernbeck

Numerous nieces and nephews

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother- Robert Barlow and his wife Ruth, grandchildren- Keith and Donna Thomas and several nieces and nephews.

The Family would like to thank all of the many wonderful caregivers at home, Parkway Manor and Herrin Hospital for their special care and love shown to Aline.  A special thank you to long-time caregiver, Jackie Emery, for going above and beyond each week.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, March 30, 2019 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin.  Rev. James Wright will officiate.  Burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 5-8 PM, Friday, March 29, 2019 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin.

Memorial donations are suggested to Energy First Baptist Church and will be accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home / 201 S. 13^th St/ Herrin, IL  62948.  For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com.