Raymond Edward McClanahan of Du Quoin
Raymond Edward McClanahan passed away suddenly at 4:57 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18, 2020. Last year, Ray told his kids, "If I die, I am OK. I have lived a happy life" - a fact known to anyone who knew him.
The patriarch of the McClanahan family, Raymond was born Feb. 11, 1936 to Raymond "Jick" and Erma (Richerson) McClanahan.
Ray started and ended his life in Du Quoin, moving back after retiring from 35 years at Reynolds Aluminum in McCook, Illinois, where he invented the process for diamond plating.
He is survived by his wife, Hermelinda (Garcia); four children, Penny (Rich) Gray and Michael McClanahan, both of Decatur, Illinois, Scott (Edward) McClanahan of Garland, Texas, and Paula McClanahan of New Smyrna Beach, Florida; five stepchildren, Alfredo Alviar of Cicero, Illinois, Linda (Brian) Woltz of Romeoville, Illinois, Sandra (Tom) Capizzi of Brookfield, Illinois, Juan Manuel (Kristina) Castenada of Mesa, Arizona and John Paul (Dina) Castenada of North Riverside, Illinois; three siblings, Glenna (Roger) Harrison of Du Quoin, Terry (June) McClanahan of Elkville, Illinois and Linda (Tom) Stewart of Robinson, Illinois; an aunt, JoAnn Siefert of Du Quoin; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Raymond Jr. and David Barry McClanahan; three brothers, Joseph Bruce, Steven Kent and Timothy Nils McClanahan; and granddaughter Nicole Gray.
He will be remembered for his generosity, his ability to fix anything, and for his friendly waves from the backyard to anyone who passed.
Graveside services will begin at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020 at the Sunset Memorial Park in Du Quoin, with the Rev. Joe Wagner officiating.
Friends may call from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service on Wednesday at the cemetery.
Everyone in attendance is required to wear a mask and use social distancing guidelines.
Friends are asked to make memorials to the American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers. They will be accepted at the funeral home.
Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.
For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.