Ferdinand Range Obituary and Death: Founder of Range Funeral Home in Joliet has Passed Away
Ferdinand Range, the founder of Range Funeral Home in Joliet, Illinois, passed away on April 6, 1958, at the age of 62. He was a pioneer in the African American community and a respected businessman who served many families in their time of need.
A life of service and dedication
Ferdinand Range was born on August 22, 1895, in Jacksonville, Alabama. He moved to Joliet in 1917 and worked as a barber for several years. He married Willie Bessie Ragland, a native of Jacksonville, in 1920. They had two children, Ferdinand Range III and Patricia Range Setoguchi.
In 1932, Range opened his own funeral home at 202 S. Eastern Avenue, becoming the first African American funeral director in Joliet. He named it Range Funeral Home and operated it with his wife until his death. He was known for his professionalism, compassion, and integrity. He also contributed to the social and civic life of Joliet, being a member of several organizations, such as the NAACP, the Elks, the Masons, and the Second Baptist Church.
A legacy of love and care
After Ferdinand Range’s death, his wife Willie B. Range took over the management of the funeral home until their son Ferdinand Range III joined her in the business. She continued to work until her retirement in 1986. She passed away on June 18, 2016, at the age of 101. She was survived by her son, her daughter, three grandsons, and two great-grandchildren.
Range Funeral Home is still in operation today, serving the Joliet community with dignity and respect. It is currently owned and operated by Ferdinand Range III and his son Eliot Range. They carry on the tradition of excellence and care that Range started more than 80 years ago.
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A tribute to a remarkable man
Ferdinand was a man of vision and courage who made a difference in the lives of many people. He was a trailblazer in his field and a leader in his community. He left behind a legacy of love and care that is still felt today. He was honored by the city of Joliet with a street named after him, Range Street, in 2008. He was also inducted into the Joliet Area Historical Museum’s Hall of Pride in 2010.
Ferdinand Range was a man who lived a life of service and dedication. He was a man who touched many hearts and souls. He was a man who will never be forgotten.
