RANTOUL, IL-  Lawrence Raymond "Ray" Parkhurst, 93, of Paxton and formerly of Rantoul, IL, passed away at 5:42 PM, Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton, IL.

Visitation will be held Thursday, February 8, from 6-8 PM at Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 S. Philo Rd., Urbana, IL with Masonic Rites at 5:30 PM.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM, Friday, February 9, 2024 also at the funeral home.

Ray was born May 12, 1930 in Williamson, WV, a son of George and Esther(Moore) Parkhurst.  He married Phyllis Marcine Horn in March of 1951 and she preceded him in death in April of 1996.  Survivors include two daughters, Cinda Dalton of Urbana, IL, Rhonda Crosby(Mike) of Champaign, IL, and a son, Allan Parkhurst(Penny) of Coronth, TX.  Also surviving are 8 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and a son, Larry.

Ray graduated from Beaver High School in Bluefield, WV, Concord College in Athens, WV and then Marshall University in Huntington, WV.  He served in the United States Air Force from 1948 to 1951.  After completing his service, Ray taught music for 52 years.  After having taught in Hannibal, Ohio, he taught in Oakwood, IL and ended his teaching career at Parkland College in Champaign.  He was a member of the Chanute Air Force Band, was a Master Mason, and was a member of the Methodist church.

Memorials may be made to Champaign V.F.W. 5520, Champaign.  Condolences may be offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.