MCLEANSBORO – Richard “Dick” Deitz, 86, of McLeansboro, died Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, at his residence.

He was born March 29, 1939, in McLeansboro, a son of Robert Deitz and Necia Ophelia (Mezo) Deitz. He married Sue (Smedley) Deitz on Nov. 26, 1960, and she survives.

Deitz was an active member of the McLeansboro community throughout his life. He was a member of First United Methodist Church of McLeansboro and served as chairman of its administrative board for 30 years. He also served on the boards of Spero Children’s Home, Trade Industries, Fox Meadows and the Southeastern Planning Commission. He was an IHSA clinician and rules interpreter.

Deitz served as mayor of McLeansboro for 28 years and as an alderman for four years. He worked for the Register-News for 47 years and was a referee for the state of Illinois for more than 50 years. He enjoyed playing slow-pitch softball.

Survivors include his wife, Sue Deitz of McLeansboro; a son, Darin Deitz of McLeansboro; a daughter, Lynn Belangee; grandchildren, Carson and Carter Belangee; a brother-in-law, Larry (Debrine) Smedley of Surprise, AZ; a sister-in-law, Joan Deitz of Mt. Vernon; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Priscilla Anderson; brothers, Robert “Bob” Deitz and Charles “Chick” Deitz; and a niece, Julia Smedley.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at Harre Funeral Home in McLeansboro. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home, with Thad Galloway officiating. Burial will follow at I.O.O.F. Cemetery in McLeansboro.

The Harre Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.