Joel Dean Brasher

Born November 11, 1953 in Peoria to Ray Elias and Ruby Lee (King) Brasher, he married Verba Jean “V.J.” Meek on October 4, 2002 in Peoria. She survives.

Also surviving are three children, Jacob “Jake” (Pamela) Brasher of Washington, Jacy (Jason) Biggs of London Mills and Jeni (Chris) Wagner of Pekin; seven grandchildren, Alexander, Rachel, Elias, Meghan, C.J., Kirsten and Chase; four great-grandchildren, Nola, Remy, Christopher and Abigail; two brothers, Jack (Laurie) Brasher of Creve Coeur and Donald (Elaine) Brasher of East Peoria and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He also leaves his beloved dog, Mason.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, James Lutrell and David Lutrell and two sisters, Dovie McMinn and Lessie Atwood.

A 1971 graduate of East Peoria Community High School, he then earned his associate’s degree from Illinois Central College in Horticulture.

He retired from Commercial Irrigation & Turf in East Peoria. He was also a retired member of the Plumbers & Pipefitters Union.

He was an outdoorsman and enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, and canoeing. He also enjoyed listening to music, mostly country and classic rock.

A celebration of life gathering will be held Sunday. August 10, 2025 at 1 p.m. at the Pekin Marine Corps League at 13370 Garman Road. Cremation has been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tazewell Animal Protective Society, 100 Taps Lane, Pekin, IL 61554.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com