Mr. Raymond Redhead

February 14, 1934 - December 21, 2018

Raymond Redhead passed away surrounded by his loving family at his home on Friday, December 21. Ray was a son, a husband, a father, grandfather, a teacher, coach, co-worker and soldier. In all those roles he was compassionate, patient and a loving role model. Ray was born on February 14, 1934 in Newcastle Upon Tyne in the United Kingdom. Proceeding him in death were his parents Thomas (Rose Marie Green Redhead), and an infant brother. He is survived by his loving wife Shirley Cromarty Redhead of 59 years, one daughter Darin Willard of Las Vegas Nevada, two sons Gary (Maryann Harris Redhead) of Morton, and Dean (Dena Nannie Redhead) of San Diego California. Surviving are two sisters Norma (James) Paxton and Sheila Burns and one brother Thomas (Edna) Redhead all of Newcastle. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. He grew up in England during World War II when the children were removed from the cities to the countryside. Ray spent some of his childhood there and started his career as a farm hand outside Greenhead in rural Northumbia, England. He served his country joining the British Army with 2nd Paratrooper Regiment, was stationed in Cyprus and fought during the Suez Canal Crisis in Egypt. During his military service he was the army heavyweight boxing champion. After his army service Ray continued his athletic pursuits earning numerous swimming awards and playing semi-professional soccer. Ray also worked at various companies as a truck driver, dock worker, factory worker, he was a machinist at Caterpillar’s Newcastle Plant. When it closed, he was able to move his family to the United States in 1967 to continue his career at Caterpillar in Peoria. He spent most of his career at the Mossville engine plant until his retirement in 1996. Ray was a member of Riverside Church in Peoria serving in various capacities throughout the years and was devoted follower of Christ. Memorial service will be on Friday December 28, at 11 AM at Gary Deiters Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 444 E. Washington St., East Peoria, with a visitation an hour prior. Pastor John King will officiate. Cremation rites have been accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Dream Center Peoria.