Richard Lee Puckett

Richard Lee Puckett, 78 of Streator passed away Monday (August 24, 2026) at his home after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

Following cremation, a visitation will be held Monday (Aug. 31st) from 2 – 5PM at the Winterrowd Funeral Home. Services will be held at 5PM at the funeral home performed by great friend, Mike Othon, with military honors conducted by members of the Streator American Legion and Streator VFW at the Riverview Cemetery.

Richard was born on August 21, 1948, in Streator to Delbert and Marion (Stuart) Puckett. He married the love of his life, Beth Leese, on May 13, 1972. She survives.

During their 54-year marriage, they were blessed with their son, Chad (Melissa) Puckett of Long Point; daughter, Debra (Craig) Handzo of Streator; grandchildren, Jonathan Lankford, Drake and Caragan Puckett, and Christian and Morgan Handzo; great-grandchildren, Adalynn, Levi, and Mila; and twin boys due soon. Also surviving are his brothers, Mike (Deana) Puckett of Streator, David Puckett of Texas, and Ronnie Puckett of Streator; sisters-in-law, Linda Sawyer, Chris Leese, and Dawn Leese; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Delbert, Andy, Wayne, James, Randy, Terry Lee, and Mark Alan; sisters, Carol Jean Perry and Sharon Kohn; and sister-in-law, Marilyn Neihaus.

Born and raised in Streator, Richard attended Streator Grade Schools and graduated from Streator High School in 1967.

He served in the US Army in Vietnam and was later stationed in Germany. Richard retired from a long and dedicated career as a truck driver, having worked for Yellow Freight and Brunton Trucking. Retirement, however, did not keep him away from the road for long. He later returned to work at NAPA and continued driving a semi for a local farmer, staying active and doing what he enjoyed.

He was a member of the Streator American Legion, Teamsters 710 and the Primitive Methodist Church. Richard found great joy tending to his yard and garden, where he took pride in keeping things beautiful. He cherished the time he spent with his family and neighbors, always enjoying their company and the simple moments they shared. A devoted Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan, Richard proudly cheered on his favorite teams and enjoyed following them throughout the seasons, even when they were losing.

Memorials may be made directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.