Ralph J. Beasley
GALESBURG - Ralph Junior Beasley, 79, of Galesburg, died peacefully at 1:25 p.m. Sunday, January 23, 2022 at his home with his loving wife by his side.
Ralph was born February 25, 1942 in Kickapoo, IL the son of Ralph and Margaret (Johnson) Beasley.
He graduated from Galesburg High School in 1959.
Ralph joined the US Army where he was trained as a X-Ray Technician. He carried his training into civilian life, working at Monmouth Hospital for several years. He then went to work for Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance becoming a computer programmer traveling to many different locations throughout his career. Ralph married Patricia Stevens and together they had four children, Greg (Rhonda) Beasley of St. Charles, MO, Jeff (Carolyn) Beasley of WI, William (Elaine) Beasley of St. Peters, MO, and Michelle (Chad) Kinsey of Lake St. Louis, MO. Ralph later married Raye Ann Harmon on November 15, 1999 in Monmouth, IL. Raye Ann survives of Galesburg as do her two daughters, Natalie Schwab of Knoxville and Vanessa (Shaun) Olson of North Henderson. Ralph is also survived by one brother, Alan (Cheri Cole) Beasley of Galesburg; one sister, Sharon (Albert) Paradis-Hagerty of Paw Paw, IL; 15 grandchildren, some of whom called Ralph “Gralph”; one great grandson; a close nephew, Richard Beasley of Galesburg; a close friend, Phillip Scott of Galesburg; and his beloved dog, Bennie. Along with his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by two brothers, Ronald and William; his beloved dog Taylor and his K-9 companion, Charlie. Ralph enjoyed working and buying and flipping homes, often putting his many talents to use. Ralph was a generous man who liked to help those in need. He had a quick wit, great sense of humor, and could make everyone around him smile. Ralph loved to be with Raye Ann, they enjoyed traveling together, spending a few years in Galveston, TX. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing cards. Ralph truly loved being surrounded by his family, especially his grandchildren. Cremation will be accorded. A family celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.