Paul “Chip” Truman Earnhart, Jr., age 77 of Belleville, IL, died Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Evercare of Swansea in Belleville, IL.
He was born on Wednesday, April 28, 1948, in Highland, IL, the son of Paul and Loyt (nee Sherwood) Earnhart, Sr.
On Friday, July 16, 1999, he married Patricia “Trish” M. Earnhart (nee Stefanowycz) in Belleville, Illinois, who survives.
Paul was born in Highland, Illinois. He attended St. Paul Catholic School and graduated in 1965. He entered the US Air Force. Paul was honorably discharged after 7 years of service. He returned to Illinois and worked as a Deputy Sheriff for Madison County for 21 years.
Paul opened Pantera’s Pizza in Belleville, Illinois, operating it for 6 years. He then purchased a Panera Bread and operated that for a number of years. His last job was a host at Harrah’s Casino in St. Louis until 2004, when he retired. Paul loved gardening and cooking. He also enjoyed painting St. Louis Cardinal baseball pictures.
Survivors include:
- Wife – Patricia M. Earnhart, Stefanowycz, Belleville, IL
- Brother – Stephen B. Earnhart, Montague, TX
- Brother – Robert B. Earnhart, Edwardsville, IL
- Sister – Mary Beth (Gary) Mumaw, Springfield, IL
- Sister – Peggy A. Waggoner, Staunton, IL
He was preceded in death by:
- Father – Paul Truman Earnhart, Sr. (died 8/11/2000)
- Mother – Loyt Josephine Earnhart, nee Sherwood (died 1/8/2009)
- Sister – Mary Katherine Earnhart (died 2/26/1943)
Arrangements are being handled by Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, IL.
No services are being made at this time. Graveside service will be at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to O’Fallon Police Department or Wounded Warriors.
