James Lee Meehan, Jr. 74, of Peoria, died peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 2, 2022.
James was born to James Leo and Wanita I. (Dolajeck) Meehan on June 7, 1947 in Poznette, WI. He grew up in Galesburg, IL area and graduated from Costa High School in Galesburg, IL in 1966. He married Betty Sue Smith on December 7, 1968 in Galesburg, IL. She survives along with one brother, LaRue Meehan of Monmouth, IL; one sister, Cecelia Murphy of Washington, IL; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, one sister, and one niece.
He worked for a short time for Gale Products in Galesburg, IL before the plant closed and a short time for Burlington Railroad in Galesburg, IL. He began working for State of Illinois in 1972 at Galesburg Research Hospital, working there until its closure, and transferred Zeller Mental Health Center in Peoria, IL and retired from state service in 2002. He worked in rehabilitation services as an instructor, and later rehabilitation supervisor for 25 years.
Graveside services with burial will be 2 p.m. Friday, March 4, 2022 at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. 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 any no kill animal shelter and K9’s for Warriors (shelter dogs trained and used for veterans with PTSD). Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
