In Loving Memory of Greg Richard Carlisle

July 10, 1947 - December 13, 2024

Greg Richard Carlisle passed away on December 13, 2024, at the age 77 after a long battle with an undiagnosed illness. Greg was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

Born on July 10, 1947 in Joplin, MO, he lived in Baxter Springs, KS for the first 6 years of his life. He then moved to East Texas where he developed a lifelong love for baseball, bird hunting, and fishing. In 1958, he moved to Lansing, IL where he would meet the love of his life. Greg went on to study at Valparaiso University. He worked for Wick’s Lumber in Orangeburg for 6 years until the company closed its doors. In 1982, Greg took a job at Kawneer where his dedication and integrity earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

Greg’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Jennie Carlisle, two daughters, Courtney Blankenship (Michael) and Katie Jett (Jason), three brothers, James Carlisle (Cynthia), Jack Carlisle (Angela), and David Carlisle (Cindy), eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren, Reese Blankenship (Katie), Ashley Hildebrand, Blake Boone (Hawanya), Harthe Blankenship (Madison), Jacob Blankenship, Garrett Blankenship, Ava Jett, Jackson Jett, Lucas Boone, and Ellison Hildebrand. Greg’s family was the heart of his world, and he found happiness in every moment shared with them. Greg is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Vera Carlisle, and his only son, Nathan Carlisle.

Greg, also known as Pop Pop, was a grandfather figure to many children. He shared his love of baseball with the community by coaching Little League for several years. He later went on to umpire for Dixie Youth softball and baseball until his body would no longer let him.

Known for his quick wit and long stories, Greg enjoyed meeting new people and running into old friends. He had a way of keeping people engaged in conversations. He took pride in his gift of gab by working part time at Ott’s Funeral Home to help comfort families after they lost loved ones. In his later years his favorite activity was walking his little frou frou dog around town to visit with the people. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of Greg’s life will be held on December 19, 2024 at Branchville Christian Church at 4:00pm. His family will receive friends and guests at 3:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to be made to Ott Funeral Home in his memory.