Darrel "Boots" Bigham

Darrel Dwain “Boots” Bigham, age 73, of Sesser, Illinois, passed away Thursday, June 11, 2026, at his home in Sesser.

Darrel was born on September 9, 1952, in Christpher, Illinois, the son of Jack Bigham, Sr. and Merle Francine (Hayse) Bigham.

His working career consisted of coal mine construction. He enjoyed fishing and loved playing with his dog Bogo.

His family said he was a “Free Spirit”.

He is survived by his siblings: Jack Bigham and wife Lydia of Benton, IL, Peggy Fitzpatrick and husband Mike of Benton, IL, Donna Perkins of Benton, IL, Deon Bankston of Johnston City, IL, Charlie Dahmm of Bolivar, MO, several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

Mr. Bigham was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, his parents, and two brothers Dennis Keelin and Butch Taylor, and a sister Linda Taylor Cockrum. 

His wishes were to be cremated.

Celebration of Life Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton, IL, with Pastor Ted Anderson officiating.

Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery.

Memorial contributions, in memory of Darrel, may be made to the Benton/West City Ministerial Alliance Food Pantry, and will be accepted at the services.

To give online condolences to the family, or to share memories of “Boots”, go to www.lpfuneralhome.com

The Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, IL, is in charge of the cremation services.

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