John C. Inman
John C Inman, age 86, of Quincy passed away on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
John was born kicking & screaming (then complaining that he was too loud) on Aug 2, 1938 in Keokuk, a son of the late Oscar “Bud” & Inez (Hutcherson) Inman.
To his great delight, He married Mary Ellen Smock on Sept 3, 1961, at the United Methodist church in Murrayville, IL.
John was a 1956 graduate of Canton, Missouri High School, where he played basketball, baseball, and track. He ran the 100-yard dash in 10.1 seconds. His sister said he was so fast she couldn’t believe that was her brother. He had a tremendous flattop haircut as well.
He attended Bailey Technical school in St. Louis and then served four years in the U.S. Air Force, two of which he spent gallantly “storming the beaches of Bermuda” every afternoon about 12:30.
He worked for Gates Radio/Harris Broadcasting for 28 years, and in 1988, he gladly joined Mary Ellen in the business she started in 1974, Inman’s Gallery. After 20 years of incredible success, they both retired in 2003. During his time at Inman’s Gallery, he painted over 200 pictures of the central midwest and the Quincy area. All those pictures were sold, which is a lot better than storing them under the bed.
John, Mary Ellen and their children were members of Vermont Street United Methodist church.
Survivors include his three children, Jeff (Chris) Inman, Brian (Tia) Inman and Marcy Phillips (Randy), multiple grandchildren and several great-grandchildren and sister, Linda Wilson (Kip) of Rushville.
John was preceded in death by Mary Ellen, one infant son, Michael John and about 113 billion other people, give or take a few billion….we couldn’t find his post-it note with the info.
Cremation rites have been accorded and no formal services are planned at this time. The Duker & Haugh Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
The world is a little less humorous today but he will continue to live through his paintings and words.
John was a great man. It was a honor to spend time with him in wonderful coffee group. Will miss Thursday lunch.
John and Mary Ellen were our youth group counselors at Vermont street ( they weren’t much older than us!). We loved them both through many, many years. We send sincere condolences to you all.
One of my great joys was going to Inman’s to see what new treasures he had waiting for me. My walls are adorned with his artwork and he will always be one of my greatest memories of Quincy.
Our Condolences to the Inman Family.
We have an original picture that John painted of a falls on our family farm. He was so talented.
We have an original picture that John painted of a falls on our family farm. He was so talented.
Marcy, Brian, and Jeff I’m so sorry for your father’s passing but I know he is with your mom once again. They both were good people and will/are missed.
Brian, I loved your dad! We had so much fun during our many years at Harris.
Fun guy at Harris! Toughest guy in the world to get a smile from until he cracked that grin! Love and prayers to all.
I’m remember John when Inman’s frames & things begun I went to high school with Jeff. My Mom(late) Kathryn Howe had several things made by him which we still enjoy to this day. Deepest condolences and respect and prayers for the Inman family. I hope god doesn’t introduce him to Noah. He’ll have the place looking good in no time. Of course I mean that in the most sincere way. You will be Missed by all who knew him. Bless John Inman. AMEN
jeff, Brian, Marcy & families….so sorry to hear about your loss….Carolyn enjoyed working for both John and Mary Ellen so much ! My sincere sympathy to all of you.
Brian,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family over the loss of your dad. Years ago he and your mom were the leaders of our youth group at VSUMC. A great couple and example to marriage.
Dwight Seeley
I used to talk art with John and Mary Ellen at their gallery. Over the years, I bought a few of a local artist’s paintings, had some of my art framed and John even bought one of my pieces. Two fabulous people that I am glad I got to know. To the family, I am very sorry for your loss. – Jason Mullins
To Jeff, Brian, Marcy and family. My sincere condolences on the passing of your father. I remember stories about your dad’s basketball exploits while shooting around on your driveway court . May the Lord help you through these difficult days and bring blessed memories.
Sincerest sympathy sent to the entire Inman family. John was a wonderful person whose talents were unsurpassed in the framing industry! Such talent is a lost art. He and Mary Ellen had a beautiful love story. Their love produced an amazing family who have followed their lead in contributing much to our community. He was as humble a man as I have ever met. He is now living eternity with his Mary Ellen in the home our Father has made for us where we will someday meet again.
May God grant you comfort, peace and strength through this difficult time. My thoughts & prayers are with you all.
Brian and Family – I am sorry for your loss – I wish you peace
John was quite a guy. Knew him from working at Harris. He will be missed as Mary Ellen is also. Sympathies to the family.
Brian, I never knew your folks, but I can see now where you get your personality. My most heartfelt feelings go out to you and your family. May God bless and keep you!