Ricky Ray Elder

Ricky Ray Elder, 67, of Potomac, passed away at 11:22 a.m. on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at Goldwater Care in Danville.

Born on October 18, 1958, in Florence, Alabama, he was the son of Thomas Elder and Carolyn Thigpen. He was previously married to Jennifer Beadles in 2000 in Danville.

He is survived by his two sons, Thomas Elder of New Mexico and Nathan Elder of Indianapolis, IN; a step-son, Ziyad Bajis of Colorado; four brothers, Cleatus Elder of Potomac, Randy (Shelly) Cessna of Potomac, Keith Cessna of Potomac, and Chris (Heidi) Cessna of San Diego, CA; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Elder was preceded in death by his parents, step-father David Cessna, and step-son Ty Brown.

A graduate of Potomac High School, class of 1977, Ricky continued his education at DACC and Anderson University. He devoted several years of service to Caradco in Rantoul and later worked as a groundskeeper at Willow Pond Golf Course in Rantoul and as a scorekeeper for the Danville Dashers. Ricky had a passion for sports, both as a participant and an enthusiastic supporter of teams including the St. Louis Cardinals, Fighting Illini, Chicago Bulls, and Blackhawks. He also enjoyed golfing.

A celebration of Ricky’s life will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the Potomac Community Building, 310 W. State St., Potomac. Cremation rites have been accorded. The family has entrusted Blurton Funeral Home in Potomac with arrangements to honor Mr. Elder’s life. Condolences may be shared with the family on his memorial page: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

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