Raymond Ellis Cropp, II, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, April 17, 2021.
Raymond was born December 22, 1926 in Cyrene, MO the son of Raymond and Maudie (Pryor) Cropp. He attended school in Bowling Green and Troy, Missouri. He moved to Galesburg and married Betty Taylor in 1957. He later married Maggie Wilson on November 17, 1984 in Galesburg. Raymond is survived by his wife Maggie; his daughter Patricia Cropp Mixon of Galesburg; sons, Derek (Megan) Cropp, Raymond (Whitney) Cropp, III, and Steven (Gloria) Abron all of Galesburg; eleven grandchildren and four great grandchildren. He is also survived by three brothers, Ronald (Yvonne) Shelton of Sacramento, CA, Lewis Shelton of Peoria, Charles (Jeannie) Shelton of Galesburg; and many nieces and nephews. Raymond was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Jackie Abron; one brother, Wilford Moore; and four sisters, Stella Wray, Bessie Holman, Florine Dixon, and Jackie Bryant.
Raymond served in the US Army during World War II, participating in both theaters of operation in France and Okinawa, inducted on April 8, 1944 until he was honorably discharged on December 25, 1946. He worked as a truck driver for Burlington Northern Railroad and Jones and Smith Transfer and retired from Teamsters Local 371 in 1980. Raymond gave his life to the Lord in 1999 and loved the Lord with all his heart. He was currently dedicated to the online Jimmy Swaggart Ministries.
Raymond was known for his delicious meals, especially his holiday meals. He enjoyed fishing, playing cards, and watching boxing on television. He was truly happiest when he was surrounded by his grandchildren. Raymond was a member of Ralph M. Noble American Legion Post #285. He enjoyed listening to gospel, blues, and jazz music.
Visitation will be 1 to 2 p.m. Friday, April 23, 2021 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Due to the COVID 19 Pandemic, face masks will be required. Graveside services will follow at 2:30 p.m. at the Mausoleum at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg. Military rites will be conducted by the American Legion/AMVETS/VFW Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or to the Alzheimer’s Association. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
