Joseph Lyle King, age 73 of Reddick entered new life on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Miller Health Center in Kankakee. He was born to Dale and Emma King on October 28, 1952.
Joe was a farmer at heart, finding peace and purpose in the land, the rhythms of rural life. He was a long-time employee of R.R. Donnelley and Sons, Dwight. Over those years his coworkers became more than colleagues, they became close friends, a bond he deeply valued.
He graduated from Reddick High School and St. Francis University. Joe lived a life rooted in community. He was proud to have earned the rank of Eagle Scout, an achievement earned by only 6% of the scouts. Joe was a 4th Degree member of the 202 Assembly of the Knights of Columbus in Kankakee and the Union Hill Lions Club, giving his time and energy in service to his faith and community.
Beyond his work and service Joe had a love for traveling the world, embracing new experiences, cultures, and conversations wherever he went. He especially enjoyed meeting new people and reconnecting with old friends, often over a cup of coffee at local coffee clutches. It was here where laughter, stories, and friendships were always on the menu.
Above all Joe cherished the relationships he built throughout his life. His neighbors were his friends; his coworkers were his extended family. He will be missed by those who knew of him.
Joe is survived by two sisters, Jane Houberg (Larry), Patricia Reed; two nephews, Joshua Houberg (Hillary), Luke Houberg (Sarah); two nieces, Sara Jane Jacobs (Michael), Megan Davis (Kirt); eight great nephews; and two great nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis “Dale” King and Emma “Mickey” King; his sister, Kathryn King; and one brother-in-law, Ira Reed.
Visitation will be held from 4-7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Clancy-Gernon Funeral Home, Bourbonnais. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Reddick. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Kankakee.
Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Altar and Rosary, Reddick; Uplifted Care; or a charity of the donor’s choice in keeping with Joe’s spirit of service.
Please sign his guestbook at www.clancygernon.com.
