AVA – Raymond C. Phoenix, 81, of Ava, Illinois, passed away on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Memorial Hospital, Carbondale, Illinois.

Raymond was born on April 16, 1945, in Ava, IL, to Fred Andrew and Josephine (Cheatham) Phoenix. He married Jeanne K. Russell on July 31, 1965, at Ava Missionary Baptist Church, Ava, IL. Raymond was a retired Superintendent of Building Services at SIU, Carbondale, IL. He enjoyed bowling, fishing and hunting.

Raymond is survived by his wife, Jeanne Phoenix of Ava, IL, his children: Scott Phoenix of Ava, IL, Chris (Angie) Phoenix of Ava, IL, Bradley Phoenix of Percy, IL; his 11 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren, his brothers: Robert E. (Patricia) Phoenix of Ava, IL, Edward W. (Barbara) Phoenix of Ava, IL, Roy L. (Joan) Phoenix of Murphysboro, IL; his sisters-in-law: DeFlain Phoenix of Ava, IL, Barbara Phoenix of Ava, IL and Esther Phoenix of Ava, IL.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter, Regina Renee Phoenix, his brothers: Irvin E. Phoenix, Everett Dean Phoenix and Fred J. Phoenix.

It was Raymond’s wishes for cremation with no services. Memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, and can be mailed to Wilson’s Funeral Home, P.O. Box 277, Ava, IL 62907.