ILLIOPOLIS – Ronald Dean Pelham, 82, passed away Thursday, July 27, 2023, at Gateway Regional Medical Center in Granite City.

He was born April 12, 1941, to Lester L. and Josephine (Floyd) Pelham. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Lester Leon Pelham.

Ronnie was head custodian for LaMar High School and Webb Elementary in Arlington, Texas, retiring in 2006. He enjoyed camping, fishing and bowling.

He is survived by his wife, Bette; son, Lester Leon "Lee" Pelham; daughter, Shannon Pelham; sisters, Donna M. Smith, Joyce A. Bogardus and Linda L. Pelham; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, August 3, 2023, at Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors rendered by the Department of Defense – Army and the Inter-Veterans Burial Detail.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a veteran's organization of the donor's choice.