Age 81, of Joliet, Illinois, formerly of Wilmington, Illinois, died on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.

Born on November 4, 1944, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, Richard Francis was the son of Leo and Vera (Barkemeyer) Reese. His family moved to the Joliet Arsenal production side where his father started as fire chief, and later they settled in Wilmington. He graduated from Wilmington High School with the Class of 1963, and he went on to attend Illinois State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in education. Richard began his professional career as a teacher, serving at St. Rose Catholic Grade School and Stephens Middle School in Wilmington. He was also a proud veteran, having served several years in the United States Army where he was deployed during Vietnam. Rich was also a member of the United States Marine Corps and was honorably discharged from both branches. Following his honorable discharge, Richard worked for the tow boats and received his CDL license and was a truck driver for some time before getting a job as a process technician at the Joliet Mobil Refinery. He began trucking again and drove for many different companies where he dedicated more than 25 years of service, retiring from Artic Express.

In his younger years, Rich was a captain of the Wilmington Wildcats football team and wrestled at Joliet Junior College. He was also an avid tennis player. He enjoyed all styles of music, photography, board games - especially playing chess, always appreciating strategy, patience, and purpose. Above all, Rich loved Jesus and never missed an opportunity to talk about his faith.

He was a force to be reckoned with—a natural storyteller whose sharp sense of humor and love of jokes brought joy to those around him. Rich was a poet, a truth seeker, and a nonconformist who lived boldly and authentically. Generous to a fault, he reflected Christ’s love through his actions, willing to give anything to anyone who asked. Family meant everything to him, he adored his four daughters and grandchildren who affectionately called him Pop Pop. Rich lived with purpose and loved without limits, and he will be forever remembered for the light, laughter, and love he shared with all who knew him. 

Richard is survived by his children: Teresa (Syanord) Carter of Chicago, Illinois, Jill Reese of Wilmington, Anna La Tour of Wilmington, Sarah Kelley of Cameron, North Carolina; grandchildren: Nathan La Tour, Melina Pluta, Lara La Tour, Ella Carter, Syanord Carter Jr., Kira Pluta, and Jaden Kelley; former spouse, Carole Stockwell; sister, Geraldine Henry; brother in law, John Pattison; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: William, Nancy and Lois; son-in-law, James La Tour; grandson, Cameron La Tour; nephew, Eddie Hengslter III.; brothers and sisters-in-law: Edward Hengslter Jr., Ingrid Reese, and Donald Henry.

Donations can be made out to the family for their distribution.

The family will receive friends on Friday, January 30, 2026 at Baskerville Funeral Home (700 East Kahler Road) from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery where he will be laid to rest receiving full military honors.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book or share Rich’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-476-2181)