Richard T. Conley

Richard T. Conley obituary, Maryville, IL

Richard T. Conley

Richard Conley Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Barry Wilson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Ltd. on Mar. 11, 2026.
Richard T. Conley, 85, of Maryville, IL, passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at his residence.

He was born September 22, 1940, in Flora, IL, the son of the late Richard and Kathryn (nee Quinn) Conley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, John and Barbara Conley; and their daughter, Julie Cutright.

Richard was a 1958 graduate of Flora High School. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Education from Eastern Illinois University in 1962 and later a Master of Science in Education from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 1966.

He dedicated his career to education, teaching technology education and electronics while also coaching track and cross country at Triad High School in Troy, IL. Earlier in his career, he taught in Donovan and Shelbyville, IL. Richard was passionate about teaching and mentoring students, both in the classroom and on the track.

Outside of his professional life, Richard had a lifelong love of music and running. He played the drums in many bands for over 40 years and was an avid runner, completing numerous road races, marathons, and ultramarathons.

He is survived by his sister, Lora Kay Harvey of Cookeville, TN; and four nephews: Stuart (Sara) Conley of Fayetteville, NC, Douglas Harvey of Pensacola, FL, Richard (Julie) Harvey of Franklin, TN, and Jerry Cutright of Charleston, IL.

In accordance with his wishes, he will be cremated and a private burial will be held at Elmwood Cemetery in Flora, IL.

Memorials are suggested to Triad High School and will be received at Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Richard's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Richard Conley's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Richard Conley's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?