Obituaries
Obituary for Richard P. Smith
Peoria- Richard P. Smith, age 86, of Peoria, passed away at 12:30 PM on Saturday, March 18, 2023 at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home.
Born January 19, 1937 in Springfield, IL, a son to Matthew and Elsie (Winter) Smith. Richard was raised in Havana, IL before joining the United States Navy in 1955. He honorably served and retired from the Navy after 21 years of service in 1976. In 1977 he began working for the United States Postal Service. After earning his GED Richard worked up to Building Equipment Maintenance before retiring in 2008 after 31 years of dedicated service. He was an avid outdoors man who enjoyed fishing, camping, and boating. Richard was an avid reader of both Western Novels and Mysteries. He was a former member of the American Legion Post 979 in Bartonville. Richard was a dedicated father and grandfather who loved his family and spending time with his grandchildren.
Survivors include two children: Shane Smith of Pekin and Jason Matheny of Peoria; stepdaughter Kindra Matheny of Peoria; six grandchildren: Kaitlyn, Alex, Cody, Makala, Mason, and Emily; three great-grandchildren: Theo, Lars and Elaina; and one sister: Elsieann Sielschott of Petersburg, IL.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers: Jerry and Franklin Smith.
Cremation rites have been accorded per Richard’s wishes.
Preferred memorials in Richard’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Friends and family are encouraged to log onto www.wrightandsalmon.com to sign the online guestbook, submit photos and share Richard’s memorial page via social media.
Cremation arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Wright & Salmon Mortuary. (309-688-4441)
Events
Event Information
Cremation has taken place.
Memorial Contribution
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
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