Donnie Jewell, 71, of Murphysboro, passed away at 8:19 p.m. Saturday, August 19, 2017, at St. Joseph Memorial Hospital, in Murphysboro, Illinois.

Donald was born on November 4, 1945, at Valleja, California, to Verland D. Jewell and Evelyn S. (Dinsmore) Jewell.

He had served in the Illinois National Guard during the late 1960's.

Donnie had formerly owned and operated Don's Body and Auto Repair in Murphysboro. He was a Hot Rod enthusiast and Drag Racer for many years. He was a member of the National Street Rod Association. He enjoyed anything to do with cars from watching on television to going to the races.

Mr. Jewell attended the First Christian Church in Murphysboro.

Donnie married Virginia (Reiman) on November 7, 1980, in Murphysboro, and she survives.

Other survivors include one step son Kent C. Lee and his wife Lori Lee of Murphysboro;

and two grandchildren Dillon Lee and Rachel Lee, both of Murphysboro.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

His body will be cremated. There will be a Memorial Service at 6:30 p.m. Friday, August 25, 2017, at Pettett Funeral Home with Rick Sutton officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Foundation. For more information, please visit www.pettettfuneralhome.com.