We are saddened to announce the passing of Mr. Dee Ozment, founding member of the Glorylanders Quartet and father/father in-law of MAGMA performing members, Rindy and Justin Nehrkorn. Dee and Dianne Ozment were presented the MAGMA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010 for their contributions in Southern Gospel Music in the Midwest region.
Lyle Dee Ozment, 71 of Pittsburg, passed away at 6:55 PM on Saturday, March 16, 2013 at his home with his wife by his side.
Funeral services for Mr. Ozment will be held at Heartland Christian Church in Marion at 1:00 PM on Saturday, March 23, 2013 with Rev.'s Tim Ozment, Jim Lambert and Gary Clark officiating. Interment will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Paulton. There will be two separate visitations held; Friday, March 22, 2013 from 5-9 PM at Blue Funeral Home in Marion and Saturday, March 23, 2013 from 11 AM- 1 PM at the church. Memorial donations are suggested to the donor's choice. Blue Funeral Home in Marion is assisting the family with arrangements.
Dee was born in Williamson County to Oral & Mabel (Handkins) Ozment on Friday, September 5, 1941. On Friday, May 31, 1963 he married Dianne Rogers on Johnston City at the Freewill Baptist Church. They were just shy of reaching their Golden Anniversary.
Mr. Ozment is survived by his loving wife, Dianne; children, Robyn & Joseph Liska, IV of New Port Richey, FL, Rindy & Justin Nehrkorn of Marion and Richard & Ashleigh Ozment of Marion; grandchildren, Joseph Liska, V, Marleigh Dianne Ozment and Maximus Dee Ozment; siblings, Janet McCoy of Lake of Egypt and Alan & Katie Ozment of Collinsville; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
Dee was preceded in death by his parents, Oral & Mabel; siblings, Donald Ozment and Vivian Hoffman.
Mr. Ozment retired from a career in education after 41 years. He served as teacher, principal, superintendent and mentor to countless students throughout the community. Dee was also President of the Williamson County Retired Teachers Association.
Mr. Ozment enjoyed playing and singing Gospel music, which lead him to becoming a founding member of Glorylanders Quartet. The group was established in 1959 and still travels and performs today. Dee was also President of the Illinois State Quartet Convention, now in its 44th year. He was a member and music director of Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church and Oasis Community Church of the Nazarene.
Dee was a devoted husband and father who loved his family, and especially his grandchildren.