Richard “Dick” Deitz 86, McLeansboro, Illinois passed away Monday, February 2, 2026 at his residence in McLeansboro. Dick was born March 29, 1939 in McLeansboro. He was a son of Robert Deitz ad Necia Ophelia (Mezo) Deitz. On November 26, 1960 he married Sue (Smedley) Deitz and she survives.
Dick, being a very active member of this community, participated in the following; he was a member of the 1st United Methodist Church, McLeansboro. Spero Children’s Home board member, Trade Industries board member, Fox Meadows board member, Southeastern Planning Commission board member, IHSA Clinician, and Rules Interpreter. Dick was the mayor of McLeansboro for 28 years, alderman four years, worked at Register News for 47 years, referee for the State of Illinois over 50 years. He loved playing slow pitch softball, he was the chairman of the administrative board of the Methodist Church for 30 years.
Survivors include his wife Sue, son Darin Deitz, McLeansboro and daughter Lynn Belangee. Also surviving are his grandchildren Carson and Carter Belangee, a brother-in-law, Larry and Debrine Smedley, Surprise, Arizona and a sister-in-law Joan Deitz, Mt. Vernon, IL. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Dick is preceded in death by his parents, sister Priscilla Anderson and brothers Robert “Bob” Deitz and Charles “Chick” Deitz. Also, a niece Julia Smedley.
Visitation for Dick Deitz will be Friday, February 6, 2026 from 5:00 P.M.-8:00 P.M. at Harre Funeral Home, McLeansboro, IL. Funeral services will be Saturday at 11:00 A.M. at the funeral home with Thad Galloway conducting the service. Burial will follow at I.O.O.F. Cemetery, McLeansboro. Memorials may be made to the 1st Methodist Church, McLeansboro and/or a Charity of Choice.
Harre Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
