Elkhart, Illinois — Raymond Robert Smith, cherished father, grandfather, brother, friend, and esteemed member of the Elkhart community, passed away peacefully at home on June 15, 2024, at the age of 79, surrounded by family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Virginia; his brothers, Charles and John; and sister, Julia.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 21, 2024, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Elkhart with Rev. Joseph Dondanville officiating. Burial will follow at Elkhart Cemetery in Elkhart.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at St. Patrick’s Church from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., following a 3:30 p.m. rosary prayer service.
Born on February 16, 1945, in Lincoln, Illinois, Raymond was known for his genuine desire to be of service and dedication to his family. He lived a life full of laughter and moments with those he held dear. His journey through life was marked by a profound love for his family.
Raymond served in the Army Reserves as an aerial photographer and a cook, among other various duties. He returned home to tend to the family farm, which became a lifelong career and passion for almost 50 years. He valued the land he planted and trusted God’s grace to provide for his family.
Raymond’s greatest joy was being a loving father to Angie Klopp, Dan (Lianne), David (Linda), Robert (Alissa), Amy Mills (Rick), and Jamie (Trent) Park. He exemplified the values of integrity, compassion, and hard work, leaving behind an indelible mark on each of their lives.
Known as the GOAT, he cherished his role as grandfather to Carly, Gabbie, Camila, Lauren, Jaden, Gavin, Landon, Hannah, Caleb, Liam, Cristina, Harrison, Olivia, Elliana, and River, and great-grandfather to Eloise, actively participating in all their sports and 4-H endeavors and nurturing their passions. His presence brought immense joy and guidance in their lives.
Raymond is also survived by three sisters, Ann Thoele, Mary Rudin, and Carolyn Pirrera.
A spirited fan, Raymond loved attending and cheering on his kids and grandkids as they played for the Elkhart Redbirds, Mount Pulaski Hilltoppers, and Warrensburg-Latham Cardinals. He was also an avid Fighting Illini and St. Louis Cardinals fan. He was a life-long member of St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Elkhart where he was often seen frying chicken for the annual chicken dinners, served on the Mt. Pulaski school board and was a Knights of Columbus member. In addition, he had a genuine love for purple martins, hummingbirds, and cardinals. A big fan of the Logan County and Illinois State Fairs, Raymond thoroughly enjoyed live music in the beer tents and watching his children and grandchildren show their award-winning duroc pigs. He enjoyed traveling, especially his trips to Ireland and Italy with his daughters. Captivating and funny, Raymond’s ability to tell stories and to create them was unmatched.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Patrick’s Church of Elkhart or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Final arrangements are entrusted with Peasley Funeral Home in Lincoln.
2 Responses
Raymond and I were Elkhart High School classmates. He and I were members of the 13 graduates in 1963. He was a very good-natured fellow – always ready for a good laugh! We lost track of each other after high school, but saw each other at the Lincoln Arcade Restaurant occasionally for breakfast to catch up. I will sorely miss him! To the family, please accept my sincere condolences!
Raymond was a loved and appreciated first cousin. He could always elicit a laugh and a feeling of fun when in his presence. I have so many memories of him from our growing up years. Goodbye Raymond and know you were loved.