John W. Hales, 78, of O’Fallon, IL, formerly of Bluford, died at Aviston Countryside Manor surrounded by family on August 14, 2025. He had been in declining health due to complications from advanced Parkinson’s Disease. He was born April 9, 1947, in Clinton, KY, to John and Reba (McKendree) Hales. He was married to Karen (Mills) Hales in 1978 and she survives in O’Fallon. He was employed by Illinois Central/Canadian National Railroad for 40 years. During several of his working years he served in the positions of Vice General Chairman and General Chairman of the United Transportation Union. After his retirement in 2007, he enjoyed fishing in his pond, caring for his rural Bluford property, and traveling with Karen and their special friends, Ken and Kathy Perkins. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and Kentucky Wildcats fan. One of his simple joys was having morning coffee while listening to NPR every day of the week. He delighted in his grandchildren.

In addition to Karen, his wife of 47 years, John is survived by daughters Tammy Carter of Clinton, KY, Regina (David) Trevino, Tressa (Donnie) Furlow of Herrin, IL, and Laura (Michael) Marcum of O’Fallon, IL, 12 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild, brother Kenny (Lori) Hales, brother-in-laws Marshall (Angie) Mills of Bluford, IL, Randy (Roxanne) Mills of Ferdinand, IN, Marty (Kelly) Mills of Mt. Vernon, IL and several nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents, daughter Linda Janell Hales Tucker, and sister-in-law Sheila Hales.

There will be no public services. In honor of John’s life, donations can be made to a local NPR/PBS affiliate, APDA Missouri Chapter, or Hospice of Southern Illinois.

Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.