Herbert “Herb” E. Reckling, Jr., 83, of Olney, formerly of West Salem, Illinois passed away on Sunday, February 13, 2022 at Carle Richland Memorial Hospital.  Herb was born March 3, 1938 in Olney, Illinois the son of Herbert E. Reckling and Florence (Knackmuhs) Reckling. He married Linda (Grant) Reckling on February 4, 1972 in Edwards County, Illinois, and she survives.

Herb enjoyed missionary work, traveling to countries like Guatemala, Haiti, and Nicaragua. He took pride in knowing that he helped young girls from impoverished countries receive an education. He also worked for UMCOR to provide emergency assistance to areas in need. Herb was a lifelong farmer who raised livestock and worked the fields. He enjoyed spending time on the farm where he grew up, and he was a hard worker. He took pleasure in having coffee with his friends at McDonalds in the afternoon.

He was also a member of Zion United Methodist Church in West Salem.

Herb is survived by his wife of 50 years, Linda Reckling of Olney; daughter, Kim Swinson and husband Pete; daughter, Kelli Kuhring and husband Kenny; son, Jay Reckling and wife Jackie; grandchildren, Jamie Heider, Heather Swinson, Jeremy (Crystal) Swinson, Ericka Roberts, Erin Adams, and Jayson Reckling; great grandchildren, Braxton, Jack, Gia, Gracie, Ethan, Emry, Wren, Trent, Alexis, and Ryder.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Eric Reckling; and sister, Heberta Reckling.

A memorial service was held at Zion United Methodist Church in West Salem, IL, Interment will take place at a later date.

Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home, Olney, IL