Joe Mccumber

He was born on October 25, 1938, in Canton, IL, the son of Donald W. and Blanche L. Beadles McCumber. He married Billie Ann Irving on March 1, 1974, in Peoria.

His wife and three children, Michelle (Don) Ku of Denver, CO, Joseph Kyle McCumber of Florida, and Lisa Dixon of Peoria, are surviving. Five grandchildren, Zachary Wilson, Brooke Andersen, Christopher Seaman, Alexander Seaman, and Addison Ku, also survive. His parents, four brothers, and two sisters preceded him in death.

Joe was an honorably discharged U.S. Navy Veteran. He dedicated 26 and a half years to the City of Peoria as a firefighter, where his bravery and commitment to the community earned him the admiration of his colleagues and the gratitude of those he served. Retiring in 1997, Joe continued to impact his community as the co-owner and operator of Greater Peoria Trucking.

Joe's love for mechanics and craftsmanship was evident in his meticulous restoration of a 1955 Ford F-100 and a 1956 Ford Fairlane. His garage was a cherished sanctuary, where he dedicated countless hours to breathing new life into those classic vehicles, transforming them into shining masterpieces. He was surrounded by friends he met at car shows; they shared a passion that turned restoration into an unforgettable journey of camaraderie and creativity. Joe was a passionate NASCAR enthusiast, eagerly tuning in to every race he could catch.

At Joe's request, cremation rites have been accorded. A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria. To share a memory or send a condolence to his family, visit www.peoriafuneral.com. Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services, Peoria, is assisting the family with arrangements.