Joseph D. Gant Jr.

Joseph Drayton Gant Jr. of Decatur, Illinois, died August 14, 2026. He attended MacArthur High School and was in the graduating class of 1959. He was a member of the Carpenters Local Union #742 in Decatur. He worked mostly for Drywall Assoc. and Interior Specialty Construction. In 1966, he married Margaret Plambeck of Decatur. On Aug. 24, 1969, Marg gave birth to their daughter, Erica Jo. Although Marg and Joe divorced in 1984, they remained friends and co-parents until Joe’s passing. Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Drayton Sr. and Dorris Annell Gant. He is survived by Erica Heth (James Heth) and her children, Jordan Pyke (Robert Pyke), Kori Heth, and Randi Heth as well as great-grandchildren Cohen and Lainey Pyke.
No one who met Joe escaped without being made to laugh. Through his dry wit and sarcastic humor, he won over the hearts of many. Though known for his teasing remarks and occasional barbs, his friends and family knew there was a big heart beneath it all. Everyone knew of his love for the St. Louis Cardinals and Fighting Illini football, as he was a season ticket holder for both teams. Joe’s main goal was to attend every opening day at Busch Stadium; come rain or shine, he was there cheering on the Cards. He was also a proud member of the (unofficial) Decatur Illini Fan Club: a group of close friends bonded by good beer and Illini football. When he wasn’t supporting his favorite teams, he could be found cruising in his pontoon on Lake Decatur. Captain Joe loved hosting friends’ family aboard his beloved boat. It now sails the Illinois River under the captainship of his daughter, Erica, and son-in-law, Jim.
Visitation will be held Friday, August 21st, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home in Decatur, with services immediately following. Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in care of Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes at www.brintlingerandearl.com.