Raymond William Betourne

Raymond William Betourne, 85, of Peoria, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at Accolade Healthcare of Peoria. He was born in Kankakee on February 27, 1940, to Armand and Lillian (Kral) Betourne. He married his wife of 38 years, Janice A. O’Connell in Kankakee on June 20, 1959; she preceded him in death on May 14, 1998. He was also preceded in death by his parents and 4 siblings, Pat Marion, Yvonne Marion, Jack Betourne, and Jerry Betourne. He is survived by his 5 children, Jeff (Susan) Betourne of Cypress, TX, Lauri (Kimo) Koo of Chandler, AZ, Gregory (Sandy) Betourne of Cypress, TX, Diane (Joseph) Rogers of Columbia, TN, and Alan (Armetha) Betourne of East Peoria, IL; 5 grandchildren, Alan Betourne II, Brandon Rogers, Lauren Betourne, Jesse Betourne, and Vaughn Anderson; and 2 great grandchildren, Leo Mosher and Ava Betourne. Ray’s proudest achievement was his family and raising his 5 children with his wife Janice. He was a man of compassion, sincerity, respect and empathy. Nothing was more important in his life than his family. He taught his children the importance of respect. Raymond was a graduate of St. Patrick’s Central High School in Kankakee. He spent over 50+ years in the Food service industry with many roles in Management. Recognized with one of the highest awards in the Food Service industry the “Ring of Excellence” for his performance. He was a man of principle, and integrity and his work ethic was second to none. He touched many lives throughout his career. Ray was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus in Kankakee. His hobbies included Football, Baseball and Trivia. He was a die-hard (Oakland Raiders) football (Commitment to Excellence) fan and proud member of Raider Nation! His other passion was baseball (Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves) as he played baseball/softball for over 50+ years and was once scouted by the Philadelphia Phillies. He was also a comedian with an amazing ability to captivate an audience with his humor and wit! Cremation rites have been accorded. Gary Deiters Funeral Home & Cremation Services in East Peoria is assisting the family. Private burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Kankakee. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online condolences may be left at www.GaryDeitersFH.com.

Raymond William Betourne

February 27, 1940 - March 19, 2025