Rufus Hairston Obituary

With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Rufus Hairston (Kankakee, Illinois), who passed away on April 5, 2026 at the age of 91. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

He was predeceased by: his wife Marilyn; his parents, Hattie King-Hairston and Rufus Hairston Sr.; his daughter Diana Hairston-Gibbs; his grandson Darvin Gibbs; his stepmother Hattie Hairston; his grandfather Nick Hairston (Pa Nick); his siblings, Laura Hairston-Rogers, Leatrice Hairston-Graves, Dora Hairston and Harden Hairston; and his aunts and uncles, Jimmie Stanley, Nannie Nelson, Laura Edwards, Ann Billsberry, Hattie McDaniel, Joe Hairston, Nick Hairston (Uncle Bo), Sam Chatman and L. H. Henry.

He is survived by: his children, Denette, Tina Williams, Sun River Terrace, Marvin Hairston of Decatur, IL, Brian Hairston of Louisville, KY and Marcus Hairston. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, a sister-in-law, friends, and former co-workers.

Homegoing celebration at 10:00amMemorials may be made to family wishes.