Craig E. Penley

Craig E. Penley, 79, of Benton, Kentucky, formerly of Bonfield, passed away Friday, December 26, 2025. He was born January 15, 1946, in Kankakee, IL, the son of Teddy L. and Betty Jean (Cote) Penley. He worked for Crown, Cork, and Seal for many years. On September 19, 1981, he married Judi Prairie-Williams in Bourbonnais, IL. Craig was a member of Cowboy Church in Draffenville, KY and People’s Church in Bourbonnais, IL. Craig had many interests and hobbies. He loved horseback riding and cutting. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, painting, weightlifting, gardening, racquetball, and pickleball. Craig was also an eternal tinkerer. He loved music and played string instruments, specifically the Mandalin and Guitar. Most of all Craig loved spending time with his wife, whether it was camping with the horses or on the dance floor. He is survived by his wife, Judi Penley of Benton, KY; sons, Chad Penley of Louisiana and Curt (Cathy) Penley of St. Anne; step children, John (Renee) Williams of Limestone and Kim (Mark) LaFlamme-Thorson of Bradley; sister, Sandra Konopacke; sister-in-law, Judith Penley of Georgia; grandchildren, Chase, Chance, Chelsea, Cody, Megan, Stephanie, Chris, Bryan, Rachel, and Kyle; several great grandchildren; best friends, Tony Moore of Bradley, Sue & Ben Allen of Kansas. Preceding him in death are his parents; brother, Gary Penley; brother-in-law, Tom Konopacke; and best friend, Joe Barrie. Visitation will be held Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 9:30am until the funeral service at 11:30am. Burial will immediately follow at Momence Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the wishes of the family.