Richard Francis Leahy, 95, of Galesburg, died at 5:30 a.m. Thursday, July 15, 2021 at Heartland Health Care and Rehab, Galesburg.
Richard was born June 3, 1926 in Galesburg, the son of John Francis and Ruth Elizabeth (Thorne) Leahy. Richard joined the US Navy in June 1944, honorably serving his country in WWII. He served in the battle of Iwojima and Okinawa. Richard was honorably discharged in June 1946. He married Lawana Rogers on June 10, 1947 in Galesburg. They were married almost 57 years. Lawana preceded him in death on April 10, 2004. Richard is survived by one son, Richard Dennis (Carol) Leahy of Rock Hills, SC; one daughter, Lawana F. (Bernie) Cokel of Rock Hills, SC; three grandchildren, Joseph (Melody) Cokel, Rebecca (Matt) Gausman, and Richard (Charlotte) Fox; and two great grandchildren, Madison Cokel and Caroline Gausman. Richard is also survived by three brothers, William (Virginia) Leahy, Michael (Linda) Leahy, and Daniel (Pippi) Leahy all of Galesburg; and two sisters, Mary Valero of Galesburg and Joan Darneille of Springfield, IL. Along with his wife and parents, Richard was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters.
Richard began working for C.B.&Q. Railroad as a switchman, later becoming a yardmaster, and brakeman/conductor. He retired from Burlington Northern Railroad in 1988 after 40 years of service. Richard enjoyed singing for many years with the Rootabega Jammers. Richard was a proud member of the VFW and the American Legion. He was a member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church. He enjoyed woodworking and will be remembered for the many Adirondack chairs he built. Richard was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan.
Cremation will be accorded. Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Thursday, July 22, 2021 at St. Joseph Cemetery. Deacon Michael Crummer will officiate. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, or a charity of the donor’s choosing. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
