Ray Harness

I. Ray Harness, 90, of Tremont, passed away Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Carle Health Pekin Hospital.

He was born August 1, 1935, in Lawrenceville, IL to John H. and Mary F. Haggard Harness.  He married Joyce Hinton on August 8, 1954, and she passed away September 22, 2018.

Surviving are one daughter, Julie (David) Messersmith of Tremont; three grandchildren, Natalie (Tim) Anderson of Tremont, Zach (Kristen) Messersmith of Springfield, J.R. (Bethonay) Harness of Tremont ; five great grandchildren; and five brothers, Don Harness of Lawrenceville,  Dale Harness of St. Peter, Larry (Mary) Harness of Allendale, Gary (Rita) Harness and Jim (Linda) Harness, both of Mt. Carmel; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and one son, Jeff Harness.  

Ray was a self-employed Insurance Agent since the age of 21 and also worked at Davis-Mortuary in Tremont for 31 years.

Ray was an active member of the Tremont United Methodist Church, a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, and Shriners.

Ray will be remembered for his deep love for his family and sense of humor.  He was always ready to tell you a joke. 

His funeral will be at 10:00 am Friday, October 31, 2025, at Tremont United Methodist Church.  Pastors Paul Nolden and Jacque Young will officiate.  Visitation will be from 5-7pm Thursday and one hour before the service, both at the church.  A Masonic service will be at 7pm Thursday following the visitation.  Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery in Tremont.  Davis Oswald Funeral Home in Tremont will be handling arrangements. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Tremont United Methodist Church or Tremont Rescue.

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