Edward Blades

Edward “Poncho” Blades, 69, of Pana passed away peacefully Wednesday, October 21, 2026 in Pana Community Hospital. He was born March 8, 1957 in Hillsboro, IL to the late Everett LaVerne “Buster” & Alice M. (Hicks) Blades. Edward married the love of his life, Brenda Kay Moore-Spracklen on March 10, 2000 and had been together since 1990; she survives.
Edward was in the Army Reserves and retired from GSI. He enjoyed hunting, motorcycles & fishing. He was a loving & giving person; always willing to help anyone. His children and grandchildren were the light and joy of his life.
Edward is survived by his children: Staycie Newlin, Pana, IL; Jeremy Schafer, Pana, IL; Jamie (Gene) Price, Shelbyville, IL; grandchildren: Kayla, Alexis, Kylie, Brittany, Brayden, Kobe, Zion, Alissa, Caden; great grandchildren: Austin, Acelynn, Mayzie, Gracie, Jackston, Kynz, Lincoln, Audrie, Nakylah & Caysen and siblings: Laveta (Danny) Coultas, Assumption, IL; Billy (Lisa) Blades, Assumption, IL; Shirley Kroll, Decatur, IL; Jesse Anthony (Patsy) Blades, Unionville, MO; Robin Brownback, Assumption, IL. He was also preceded in death by his grandson, Kaleb Jon.
Visitation for Edward will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 2026 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in McCracken-Dean Funeral Home.
Memorials in Edward’s honor may be made to the family and will be accepted by McCracken-Dean Funeral Home who is assisting the family.