Duane "Sid" Sidwell

Duane “Sid” Sidwell, age 81, of Fulton, Missouri, went home to be with his Lord and Savior as he passed at home with his wife, Sherry, by his side on December 13th, 2025, at 8:28 pm. Born on October 27th, 1944, in Havana, Illinois, to Elwin and Lorene (Shaw) Sidwell. While growing up in Havana, he developed a wide range of practical skills from both his father and grandfather. These abilities served him well throughout his life, as there was not a job he would not tackle and complete with ultimate success. He worked alongside his wife and children on various home, yard, and vehicle projects and was a constant curious learner. Even as he was passing, he was giving orders on how to fix the garage door opener linked to his phone.

Sid served in the U.S. Army from 1961 to 1965 as a supply clerk and truck driver. He was stationed in France during the Kennedy Assassination. After completing his service, he returned to Clayton, Illinois, and worked several construction jobs.

He went on to marry the love of his life, Sherry Davis, on March 22nd, 1975. He became a father to Camie and Shayne whom he raised as his own. In 1976 they welcomed another daughter, Veronica, into the family. Anyone that knew Sid, never doubted the love and care he had for his family. He selflessly gave everything to his family and provided for them in every way possible. He always had that twinkle in his eye and a laugh that could fill up the room.

Together, they made their home for their first 10 years of marriage in Clayton, Illinois.

Sid was employed by Coggeshall Construction for 17 years before relocating with his family to Colchester, Illinois, where he later accepted a position as a heavy-equipment operator at Western Illinois University in Macomb. Known for his work ethic, he was named employee of the month and employee of the year retiring in 2010 due only to declining health. He was passionate about gardening, landscaping, and fishing. He was always working on a puzzle, playing with his new gadgets, and learning something new.

His devotion to his faith and family defined his life; Sid was a lifelong Christian who dedicated many years to teaching youth at Colchester Baptist Church. Later in life, Sid and Sherry moved to Fulton, Missouri, to be closer to their daughter and grandchildren. It was very important to Sid to be a big part of his grandchildren’s lives, from ball games to road trips to ice cream dates to being the spiritual leader and role model for them.

Sid and Sherry are currently members at Fulton Bible Baptist Church.

Sid was preceded in death by his parents and 7 siblings.

He is survived by his wife, Sherry; children Camie, Shayne, and Veronica (Jason); ten grandchildren—Brandon, Ben, Breanna, Chaz, Hayden, Garett, AJ, Grady, Calli, Will—and five great-grandchildren; sister Helen Davis; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, nothing would mean more to Sid than sharing Christ with youth. Contributions can be made to the church that his grandson Ben Sprenger pastors at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Newnan, Georgia.

Emmanuel Baptist Church

3911 Sharpsburg McCollum Rd

Newnan, GA 30265

“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.” Psalm 19:14

Per Sid’s wishes, there will be no visitation. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 17th, at 11:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Colchester with a meal to follow.