Richard G. Battles, Jr.

Richard G. Battles, Jr., a 33 year resident of Petersburg, passed away on Saturday, March 6, 2010 at St. John�s Hospice surrounded by his family. Richard was born on October 30, 1934, the son of Richard G. and Elizabeth Hart Battles Sr. He married Jennie Boston in August of 1960. He was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church. A graduate of the University of Illinois, where he received bachelor's and master's degrees in radio and television journalism, Richard was an avid sports fan who zealously followed the fortunes of his alma mater's Fighting Illini and his beloved Chicago Cubs. Richard followed a career in radio news and service with the State of Illinois with a second career making brooms at historic sites and craft fairs throughout the Midwest. In addition to his wife of nearly 50 years he is survived by a sister-in-law Sydne Abernathy; children, Amy Battles Cosgriff of Springfield, Andrew (wife, Joanna) Battles of Baton Rouge, LA, and Matthew (wife, Rebekah Schlesinger) Battles of Boston, MA; and grandchildren, Elias Battles, Judith Battles, and Noah Cosgriff. Richard was eagerly awaiting the birth of a 4th grandchild, due in April to Drew and Joanna. Cremation to be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center. A celebration of Richard's life, marriage, and family will be held at 6:00 p.m.,. on Friday, August 13, 2010 at the Wagon Wheel Log Building located at the entrance of Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Park. The brief ceremony will be followed by a light picnic supper. Andrew, Matthew, Amy, Jennie and all of their families would be honored to have your presence at this tribute and to assist them in the continuation of sharing Richard's memory. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure fund, Attn: Donor Services, PO Box 650309, Dallas, TX 75265-0309.