Ricky L. Stayton, 65, of Ottawa, Illinois, passed March 10, 2021 surrounded by loved ones in his daughter’s home in Streator, Illinois.
Ricky was born to Arland and Rita (Shapcott) Stayton, June 1, 1955, in Ottawa, Illinois. He graduated from Ottawa High School and continued his education while enlisted in military service. He is survived by his dog Dante of Streator and wife Mary (Nevin) Stayton of Streator.
He leaves as his legacy several children: daughters Jennifer Stayton of St. Augustine, FL; Jessica (Matt Slager) Stayton of Streator, IL; sons Joshua (Andrea) Stayton of St. Augustine, FL; Jacob (Holly) Stayton of Palatka, FL; Nathan (Tesha) Nevin of Streator, IL; and 11 grandchildren. He also leaves to cherish his memory 7 siblings: sisters, Phyllis (Bill) Hopkins of Seneca, IL; Brenda (Tom) McCague of Ottawa, IL; Sandy (Jerry) Tapp of Emington, IL; Kathy (Gary) Dickinson of Morris, IL; and brothers, J.R. (Janice) Stayton of Port Orchard, WA and David Stayton of Streator. His family remembers him as a light of wisdom and kindness.
He was preceded in death by Arland and Rita Stayton, (parents), and Greg Stayton, (brother).
Ricky served in the United States Army as a 51B Army Carpentry and Masonry Specialist. He was a master craftsman who owned and operated FM Woods in Streator, IL. He also worked for St. Mary’s Hospital and OSF Streator in security and maintenance.
“There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone, the light remains.” – author unknown
Ricky spread light in the world by sharing his many talents with all who knew him. When someone picks up a guitar, brushes off sawdust, or listens to some Clapton, they will walk away with a piece of that light.
A Funeral Service is scheduled for March 14, 2:00 PM at Brush Arbor Meeting Cowboy Church in Long Point, IL. All are welcome to attend. A private burial will be located at Oakwood Memorial Park in Ottawa, IL. Full military rites will be accorded. Memorials may be directed to the Brush Arbor Meeting Cowboy Church.
He was laid to rest in the Garden of Prayer.