Darrell Barton

Darrell C Barton, age 78, of Peoria, IL, passed away Saturday, November 18, 2023, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, IL.

Darrell was born on September 25, 1945, in Peoria, IL, to Cleve H and Ruth M (Plymale) Barton. He married Raelene Collier, the love of his life, on April 29, 1989, in Peoria, IL.

Darrell lived his life the way he wanted! He loved spending time with family, friends, and especially his beautiful wife of 40-plus years, Raelene. They enjoyed Friday nights in their basement bar listening to music and Saturday nights at the Garden Gate Tap hanging out with friends and family. Darrell loved playing the poker machines and singing karaoke! Everyone loved to hear Darrell sing! His laid-back motto of life came with some well-known sayings that we will never forget! He would always say, "It is what it is," or "It's all good in the hood," with a smile that brightened the whole room. He was known for his excellent advice and life lessons and was nicknamed the "Godfather."

Darrell had a career early in life as an electrical line worker and then spent many years with Southwest Motors as a Car Salesman/Mechanic. Once retired, he enjoyed bartending, especially at VFW Post 8662 in Peoria.

Darrell is survived by his wife, Raelene Barton; three daughters, Nadine (Richie) Knee, Cheryl (Javier) Munoz, and Dawn Graham (Les Keayes Sr); three granddaughters: Whitney Graham, Jessica Graham, and Carrigan Stevens-Barnwell; one great-grandson: Salvador (Bean) Murillo IV; one great-granddaughter: Maleah Stevens-Barnwell; two fur grandbabies; Scooter and Mavis; one brother Wayne Barton; and many in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cleve and Ruth Barton; his siblings, Harvey Barton, Dale Barton, Jearl Barton, Carl Barton, Lucy Fry, and Davey Barton; his in-laws: Joyce Collier, Tony Whitehurst, Cherry McCrimmon, Ronald (Jay) Collier; his Stepson John Barnwell and many friends and family members that he loved and missed dearly.

Darrell was always up to a party and didn't want people to be sad about his death; therefore, we are celebrating his life with a Celebration of Life on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 3 pm at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Post 265. Please come and share stories/memories of Darrell. Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services in Peoria is assisting the family with arrangements.  To share a memory or a condolence with his family, visit www.peoriafuneral.com.

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