Jerry Raney, 72, passed peacefully, with his loving family by his side, at 5:35am, Friday, January 25, 2013 in Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
Jerry was born to George and Jennie (Eads) Raney on March 21, 1940, in Puxico, Missouri.
Jerry retired from Southern Illinois University after 35 years of service, as a Building Services Sub Foreman.. He was a member and Business Agent of the SEIU Local 316. Outside of his love for his family his life interests included being a Member, President, and Trustee of the Carbondale Eagles Club 2569 for over twenty years. He loved the outdoors, Jerry was a men’s fast-pitch softball coach, manager, promoter, an overall supporter of the game for over 25 years. Obtaining a win/loss record, including winning the Class A Illinois Mens Fast Pitch State Championship in 1991 and advancing to the ASA National Tournament. For these achievements his team advanced to the Illinois Class AA Division and for his accomplishments he was inducted into the Illinois American Softball Association (ASA) Hall of Fame in 1999 the highest honor attainable.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Betty Jo (Clayton), of Carbondale. Sons, Mike and Kelly Raney; Rick and Gina Raney, all of Murphysboro. Grandchildren, Brittany and Jacob Cook of Clarksville, Tennessee; Derrick Raney of Carbondale. Great-grandchildren, Isabella, Sofia and Jacob of Clarksville, Tennessee. Sisters, Dorotha and Jimmie Reynolds of Anna; Linda Cook of Makanda; Ann and Joe Upchurch of Carbondale. Several nieces and nephews. His beloved pet, Molly.
Jerry was well respected by many and had many close friends that he considered family. A special thank you to Merle Rankin of Carbondale for your unconditional support.
Jerry was preceded in death by a son, Jeffrey Allen Raney; his parents George and Jennie Raney; brother-in-law, John Cook, and nephew, Steve Reynolds.
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