Lonnie E. "Junior" Drayton Jr. of Rockford departed this earthly life May 11, 2022. He was born August 3, 1947 in Rockford, IL the son of Lonnie Sr. and Roberta Drayton. Lonnie was employed many years as a skilled Machinist in the Rockford area, concluding his career at Ingersoll where he worked, eleven years. He married the former Madeliene Sherod in 1967 of this union, five children were born. Lonnie was a member of Providence Baptist Church. He played semi professional basketball. He graduated from Auburn High School class of 1966 and later attended Rock Valley College.

Lonnie leaves to cherish many loving memories, his daughters Angelique', LaChelle, and Nyokalynn Drayton; son, Lonnie E. (Janet) Drayton II., three grandchildren and three great great grandchildren; mother, Roberta Drayton; companion of many years, Annette Hardnett; and god daughter, Tonya Wallace; sister, Arnez Glover; three brothers, Dwight Drayton, Leon (Ruby) Drayton and Robert (Michelle) Drayton; a host of nieces, nephews cousins other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his father, Lonnie Sr.; son, Tranier Drayton; and sister, Vickilynn Ellis.

Services  will be held 12:00 p.m. Friday May 20, 2022 at Carl E.  Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.