SPC4 E-4 (U.S. Army) Raymond A. Clark of St. Francisville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2026, at 5:37 pm at the age of 90, with family by his side.
SPC4 E-4 (U.S. Army) Raymond A. Clark of St. Francisville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2026, at 5:37 pm at the age of 90, with family by his side. He was born in October 1935, to George and Ruby Clark in St. Francisville, Illinois and lived a full and remarkable life. In 1958, Raymond married the love of his life, Peggy Ridgley. Together they shared almost 37 beautiful years, until her passing on August 31, 1995. Raymond devoted his life to his family and faith, while he and Peggy raised their son Thomas (Tom) together with love and patience.
After graduating from high school in 1953, Raymond entered the workforce where he held jobs at the Chrysler Plant in Evansville and the Post Office in St. Francisville. He also worked part-time during the 1970’s at The New Moon movie theater in Vincennes. Raymond spent the vast majority of his employment with the U.S. Post Office in St. Francisville from 1954 – 1998. He proudly served his country for 2 years during 1959 - 1961, including a tour where he was stationed in Germany. After the military, Raymond dedicated his career to the community of St. Francisville and the U.S. Postal Service, serving as the Postmaster from 1970 – 1998. He also volunteered on the Lawrence County Health Department Board. In 1989, Raymond was the Grand Marshall of the St. Francisville Chestnut Festival Parade. October 21, 2023 Raymond and Tom travelled together on The Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. to celebrate the day at the nation’s memorials.
Raymond valued spending time with his family, grandchildren, and friends, travelling, doing crossword puzzles, and watching basketball and baseball. His favorite sports teams were the Lawrenceville Indians, Fighting Illini and Chicago Cubs. He was an active member of his church and lived a life filled with love, laughter, and generosity. Raymond touched the hearts of everyone he met through his military training and service, the post office, church, the American Legion and community events. He was known for being compassionate, honest, joyful, and loyal.
Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, and two older sisters (Corrine & Gloria Jean).
Raymond is survived by his son, Tom; daughter-in-law, Laurie; his grandchildren Allan Howard and Brooke Howard, and many nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at St. Francisville Christian Church. A funeral will take place immediately afterwards, with graveside services and military honors at Oak Lawn Cemetery (St Francisville) following. Cunningham Funeral Home of Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Memorial contributions can be made to the group or organization of the donor’s choice directly or through the funeral home. Online condolences can be sent to Raymond’s family at www.cunninghamfuneralhomes.com.
