IL SR1175

James L. "Jim" Ranney of East Peoria passed away on August 29, 2022, at age 83.

Ranney had a distinguished education career as a teacher, counselor, and administrator, earning a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from Southern Illinois University in 1970, and served as Director of Elementary Curriculum for Peoria Public Schools from 1973 until his retirement in 1993.

Ranney served as East Peoria's mayor from 1979 to 1987, during which time he founded the Festival of Lights Parade in 1985 and chaired the Tri-County Mayor's Association.

Ranney was recognized as East Peoria Citizen of the Year in 1986 and Tri-County Citizen of the Year in 1987, and had a public service building in East Peoria named in his honor.

Senate extends condolences to Ranney's surviving wife Sandra (married 58 years), son James, five grandchildren, and brother Bill.