Raymond J. Brandon, 81, of Spring Creek RV Resort, Crescent City, formerly of Rantoul, died Sunday, January 24, 2010 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka.

Graveside services were held Thursday, January 28, 2010 at 11:00 AM at Eden Park Cemetery, 500 Church Drive, Rantoul with Reverend Jeffray Greene officiating.

Raymond was born on December 24, 1928 in Cross Plains, Indiana to Harry and Florence Brooks Brandon. His childhood was spent in Cross Plains, IN.

An Air Force veteran from 1945 - 1966, he retired with the rank of Master Sergeant and also worked in civil service at Chanute Air Force base in Rantoul where he was a weather and jet engine instructor. He retired from civil service at the age of 55.

He married Betty Benson. She died on October 12, 1978.

Survivors include his fiancee, Corinne E. Martin of Crescent City; daughter, Pamela Hopkins of Tennessee; son, Raymond D. and Verla Brandon of Michigan; two stepdaughters, Donna and Bill Johnmeyer of Missouri, and Marsha and Tom O'Connell of Minnesota; twelve grandchildren; seventeen great grandchildren; two sisters, Lucille and Raymond Boldrey of Kentucky, and Evelyn and George Davidson of Indiana; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, daughter, Lynda Somsen, two grandsons, Trevor Brandon and Joshua Schultz, and one nephew, Billy D. Fields.

Raymond was of the Lutheran faith. He had formerly lived in Rantoul from 1959 to 1985.

Lifetime memberships included VFW Post 6750 and American Legion 287 both of Rantoul and Paxton Mason Lodge 416, serving as Master from 1974-1975. Other memberships are Moose Lodge, Scottish Rite of Danville, Shrine of Springfield, and York Rite Bodies of Paxton, and board member of Lot Owners Association at Spring Creek RV Resort.

He enjoyed traveling, camping, and collecting. He was a handyman and jack of all trades. He most enjoyed helping others.

Arrangements were made by Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman. www.redeniusfuneralhomes.com