A long time community leader has passed away. Mr. Ray Radliff died Thursday morning, he was 77. Mr. Radliff was born in Fayette County in 1938, one of seven children. He attended schools in Four Mile, Brownstown and Vandalia. After graduation, he served four years in the United States Air Force, then returned home to attend Millikin University in Decatur, receiving a bachelor of science degree in economics and finance in 1964. He later served on the Board of Trustees for Millikin University.
Upon graduation, Mr. Radliff worked for a family oil business. In 1971, Radliff Drilling Company, an oil exploration and production company, was founded by Mr. Radliff. In 1977, the business was incorporated. The company sold its equipment in 1994, but still continued to explore and drill wells.
In 1971, Mr. Radliff was appointed to the board of directors of The First National Bank of Vandalia. Mr. Radliff was elected to the position of president and chief executive office of the bank from late 1987-1990. He was elected as chairman of the board of directors in 1988 and served through 2010
He was very active in community, political and petroleum related endeavors.. His earlier involvement includes: President of the Vandalia Jaycees, a two-term member of the City Council, member of the Vandalia School Board, member of the Economic Development Commission and retired member of the Vandalia Fire Department, Moose, Eagles and AMVETS, 51-year member of the Illinois Oil and Gas Association and served as president of the organization from 1975-1977. In 1972, he was appointed by Governor Walker as the Official Representative of the State of Illinois to the Interstate Oil Compact Commission, rising to Vice-Chairman under Governor Edwards of Louisiana.
Earlier this year Ray’s son Michael followed in his footsteps and took over as the new President and CEO at First National Bank.
Services are below:
Visitation: 5:00-8:00pm, Monday, July 27, 2015 at Unity Baptist Church Vandalia, Hwy 185 location (formerly Temple Baptist Church)
Masonic Service: 7:00pm, Monday, July 28, 2015 at Unity Baptist Church, Hwy 185 location
(formerly Temple Baptist Church)
Funeral Service: 10:00am, Tuesday, July 28, 2015 at Unity Baptist Church Vandalia, Hwy 185 location (formerly Temple Baptist Church)