Richard Liles
Jerseyville |
Richard Lewis Liles, 88, passed away unexpectedly at 5:29 p.m., Thursday, August 22, 2024 at his home in Jerseyville.
He was born on November 19, 1935 in Jerseyville, Illinois and was the son of the late Earnest and Hazel (Weller) Liles.
Richard lived a life marked by hard work, service and a deep appreciation for the simple joys that brought him contentment.
Richard served his country with honor in the United States Army, where he developed a strong sense of duty and camaraderie that would stay with him throughout his life.
On February 13, 1958, he married the former Salvatrice Guastella, and together they built a life filled with love and shared purpose. The birth of their three children brought immense joy to their lives. Richard was a devoted father, always working hard to provide for his family while also instilling in his children the same values of integrity and respect that he held dear.
Following his military service, Richard found steady work with the Mississippi Lime Company/ He took pride in his role as a laborer, contributing the company’s operations with the same dedication he showed in his service to his country.
One of Richard’s greatest pleasures was working with his tractors. He meticulously maintained them, starting each one up every week to ensure they were always in pristine condition. His love for his tractors was more than just a hobby – it was a reflection of his appreciation for hard work and his commitment to keeping things in perfect working order.
As Richard grew older, he took great pride in maintaining his independence, continuing to care for his home, his tractors, and his daily routines with the same diligence and self-reliance that defined his younger years. He valued his ability to remain active and engaged, never letting age slow him down.
For many years, Richard served as a member of the Jerseyville American Legion Post #492 Honor Guard, a role he took immense pride in. It was at the Legion where Richard found a second family, forming deep friendships with his fellow veterans. He cherished the time he spent there, sharing stories, laughs, and memories with those who had served alongside him. Performing military honors for his fallen comrades was not just a duty for Richard; it was an honor, a way to pay tribute to those who had made the ultimate sacrifice.
Surviving are a son, Peter Liles of Joliet; a daughter and son in-law, Carol and Steve Short of Carrollton; six grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Chris Bailey; a grandson, Thomas Green; a great granddaughter, Kynzie Willis; a sister, Jacqueline Liles and a brother, Roger Liles.
Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville, where funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m., Thursday.
Burial will follow at St. Francis Cemetery in Jerseyville.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Jerseyville American Legion Post #492 Honor Guard, in care of the funeral home.
Rest in peace, Richard. Your dedication and service will never be forgotten.
Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com
Crawford Funeral Home
