Richard E. Barnett, 79 of Urbana passed away at home, peacefully surrounded by his family Saturday May 4, 2024.  He was born in Champaign on October 27, 1944, the son of Gerald and Betty (Bales) Barnett.  He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jeannie (Lovenguth).  He is also survived by a son, Chad (Carolina) Barnett, 4 grandsons, Richard S., Caden, Conner, Colton, 1 granddaughter, Brianna, 2 great grandsons, Matthew, Spencer, 1 great granddaughter, Cheylee, his loyal 4 legged companion Sophie Joy, 3 sisters, Donna Zook, Diana Shaw and Wilma Dyson, 2 brothers, Bill Barnett and David Barnett.  He was preceded in death by his daughter, Tonya, his parents and 1 sister, Geraldine Morfey.

Richard graduated from Urbana High School in 1963 and Illinois Commercial College.  He joined the Army in 1967 and served in Vietnam.  He was discharged in 1968 as a sergeant.  He was a employed at Pepsi Cola for 29 years and then was a highway maintainer for the State of Illinois.  He was a member of Champaign VFW Post 5520 and was Past Commander and District Commander.  Richard was also State Surgeon, member of the DAV,  Urbana American Legion Post 71, Patriot Riders and AMVETS Post 3.

He was an avid St. Louis Cardinal fan.  He loved the Fighting ILLINI.  In 1984 he was named “Most Zealous ILLINI Fan of the Year”.  He was a great sports enthusiast.

Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday May 8 at Renner-Wikoff Chapel & Crematory, 1900 Philo Rd, Urbana. Pastor Jeff Dyson will officiate.  Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery, Urbana with military rites.  Visitation will be from 5 to 8 PM on Tuesday May 7 at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warriors or St. Jude Hospital for Children.

Condolences may be offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com