Raymond Eugene Laurent

Raymond Eugene Laurent, 71, of Springfield went to be with the Lord at 11:30 p.m. Monday, January 28, 2008 at Memorial Medical Center. Raymond was born August 31, 1936 in Springfield, the son of George and Jane Allen Laurent. They preceded him in death. He was married to Jean Cremeens Laurent. He is survived by two daughters: Daphne (husband, Matthew) Southern of Springfield and Noel (husband, Michael) Fitzgibbon of Rochester; three grandchildren: Ava Marie and Thomas Allen Southern and Sydney Jean Fitzgibbon; one brother: Robert (wife, Shirley) Laurent of Springfield; several nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins; caretaker and special friend: Dan Morris; and his beloved dog "Moe". Raymond attended Bunn Grade School and graduated from Lanphier High School in 1954. He loved music and was a member of Miss Duncan's A Capella Choir, and was involved in the Muni Opera. He was an usher at the Orpheum Theatre in the 1950's, and also worked for the Bisch & Vancil Funeral Homes. He graduated from the Dixon Illinois State School of Nursing in 1960, as a licensed practical nurse. He was employed for many years at Memorial Medical Center, retiring in 2000. Ray loved his family and grandchildren, and enjoyed cooking. He was known for his delicious cheesecakes that he shared with his family and friends. He was a member of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Family will receive friends from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 31, 2008 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Visitation will begin with a prayer service at 5:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at 11:30 a.m. on February 1, 2008 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 524 E. Lawrence, Springfield, with Rev. Christopher A. House, celebrant. Entombment will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery Mausoleum. Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702.