R. "DeWayne" Plummer

Mr. Ralph. DeWayne "Boomer" Plummer, age 78, a man whose laughter echoed as robustly as his nickname, was welcomed into the arms of the Lord on February 6, 2026, following a life as vibrant and hearty as the engines of the cars he once raced. Born on August 14, 1947, in Robinson, IL, Boomer's journey began as the spirited son of Ralph Carlos and Juanita Ruth (Cravens) Plummer, and he took his final victory lap in the very same town, leaving a legacy of joy and resilience.

Boomer was a proud graduate of Robinson High School's class of 1965, and his thirst for knowledge led him to further his education at Lincoln Technical Institute, where he majored in, guess what? Automotive technology. His career was a testament to dedication; he started working at L.S. Heath & Sons Chocolate Plant in October of 1969, where he quickly moved from labeling machine operator to the role of Lead Maintenance Technician. His 41 years with Heath and Hershey were marked by the same commitment he showed in every aspect of his life.

Married to his forever love, Barbara Ann Johnson, Boomer was a devoted husband and a pillar for his family, which includes his wife, Barbara Plummer of Robinson, IL; his brother Randy Plummer and companion Jane Lewis of Oblong, IL, and his sister Charleen (Ron) Rippi of Dekalb, IL. and his sister-in-law, Mrs. Nancy Plummer. He was a guiding star to his twin brothers, Larry and Jerry, who preceded him in death, and a beloved uncle to his many nieces and nephews.

Boomer's Christian faith was as steadfast as his sense of humor. A lifelong member of the Bible Chapel Church in Robinson, IL, he lived his beliefs and shared his spirit with everyone around him. His service in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1970 and his membership in the VFW Post #4549 and Reavill Post #132 American Legion in Flat Rock, IL, were hallmarks of his patriotic spirit.

An adventurer at heart, Boomer's youthful days saw him as a stock car enthusiast, as both an owner and driver, churning dirt and mud and turning heads across the circuits from Stoy, Il to Olney, IL to Haubstadt, IN. His 1974 Harley Davidson wasn't just a motorcycle; it was a vessel for countless journeys with Barbara, and a symbol of the freedom and thrill that he so cherished. His next mechanical love was his 2004 Harley that he and Barbara ventured forth on many long distance bike trips and were an integral part of the Hershey Bikers.

As humorous as he was faithful, Boomer often quipped a line from the beloved comedian Bob Hope: "I don't feel old. I don't feel anything until noon. Then it's time for my nap." His days, however, were anything but idle. Boomer's adventurous, faith-filled, and spirited nature made him a beacon of light and laughter in his community.

Today, we celebrate a man who lived life in the fast lane but always made time for a pit stop of the heart. Mr. R. DeWayne "Boomer" Plummer may have taken his final checkered flag, but the race he ran was nothing short of extraordinary. His legacy will continue to "rev" the engines of our hearts and inspire us to live each day with a full tank of joy and a roadmap to Heaven.

In keeping with Boomer's affinity for privacy, there will be no public services, and he will be cremated and his remains buried with family in the Oblong Cemetery.

In honor of Boomer's Military Service to his Country, the family suggests memorial contributions to Post 4549 VFW Veteran's Transportation fund, 712 E. Main St., Robinson, IL 62454