Reggie Ray Birch Obituary (1938 - 2024)

Reggie Ray Birch, 86, of Bible Grove passed away at 4:35 am, Monday, June 3, 2024, at the Lakeland Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Effingham, Illinois with his loving family by his side. Reggie was born on January 1, 1938, in Clay County, Illinois the son of John V. and Josephine (Wyatt) Birch. He served his Country Honorably from 1956 to 1960 in the US Air Force. His time in the service instilled in him a deep sense of patriotism and a disciplined work ethic, qualities that would define his character in the years to follow. Reggie married Rita Jean Grove on April 21, 1962, at the Ingraham Christian Church and they shared 62 years of marriage. Reggie found his professional calling at the Southwire factory in Flora, where he worked diligently for over 20 years as a reel worker. His dedication to his job was paralleled only by his commitment to his spiritual life. Reggie was a devoted member of the Bible Grove Christian Church, where he had provided guidance and support as an Elder. In addition to his work and church activities, Reggie had served an elected Bible Grove Township Trustee for many years. He approached his role with the same integrity and responsibility that he displayed in every aspect of his life. Reggie's interests were a reflection of his love for the great outdoors. In his younger years, he could often be found in the woods, hunting with a keen eye and a steady hand. He also had a passion for fishing and mushroom hunting. Reggie found solace and joy in tending to his garden, nurturing the earth and harvesting the fruits of his labor. Reggie was an enthusiastic fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. Reggie is survived by his wife: Rita Jean Birch of Clay City; sons: David Ray (Connie) Birch of Bible Grove, Darren Lee Birch of Bible Grove, Stephen Len (Dawn) Birch of Flora; 6 grandchildren: Carrie (Matt) Bushue, Melissa (Tyler) Amos, Chelsea (Brad) Marlow, Cody (Ciera) Birch, Dillon Birch, Savanah Birch; 8 great grandchildren: Reese Bushue, Kayden Bushue, Lia Amos, Jett Amos, Gage Marlow, Noah Marlow, River Rose Robinson, Logann Olivia Birch; brother: Terry (Carole) Birch of Louisville; sister: Karen (Stan) Dillman of Champaign, Illinois; 2 sisters-in-law: Rosie Birch of Bible Grove, Jeannie Birch of Newton, Illinois. He is also survived by many nieces, and nephews. Reggie was preceded in death by his parents; a great grandson: Canaan Ray Birch; siblings: Richard (Wanda) Birch, Merrill (Elaine) Birch, Ronald Birch, Darrel Birch. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 am, Monday, June 24, 2024, at the Brooks Cemetery, Bible Grove with Ron Payne and Gene Birch officiating. Military honors will be given. Following the graveside service everyone is invited to the Bible Grove Christian Church where a Celebration of Life and meal will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Reggie's memory to the Bible Grove Christian Church Building Fund. The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is entrusted with the arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory of Reggie, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.