Larry Peasley was born August 10, 1946, in Lincoln, Illinois, the son of Paul and Mary (Purlee) Peasley. He married Janet Oakes on May 30, 1980, in Maroa, Illinois. Along with being dedicated to his wife for over 40 years and his sons, he was dedicated to helping the community in which he lived. He spent many years coaching youth sports, along with serving on the fire department. He spent time serving as the township clerk for Maroa Township. Larry worked in agriculture and in fire equipment sales.

He served on the Maroa Countryside Fire Protection District for over 43 years, 25 of those years as chief. No matter the time or the day, he showed up. He did it for the community, not for personal glory. Through the ups and downs, through the good times and bad, through the toughest adversity and the toughest calls, he showed up to help. His sons, J.D. and Tim, were fortunate enough to be able to serve alongside him for the last 20 years.

Chief Peasley was always there to help his family whenever they needed him. He loved to support his granddaughters. He attended many sporting events and school functions to watch his granddaughters, Marina, Addelyn, and Hayden, do what they loved. His favorite was to watch them play softball. Along with watching his granddaughters’ different events, he loved watching sports. Every night, you could find him sitting in a chair at the kitchen or in a chair with his legs kicked up, watching whatever sporting event was on TV.

Chief Peasley spent his life volunteering and helping others in need. He lives on through those that he helped, mentored, and volunteered with. His legacy is attached to a memorial scholarship in his name at the local high school. The scholarship is awarded to individuals who plan on helping and serving like Chief did for so many years. Chief Larry responded to over 5,000 calls with the Maroa Fire Department.

He spent his last waking moments responding to a call and trying to help others like he had done so many times before. He spent his last moments on earth fighting and surviving for his family. His family takes peace in knowing this and takes comfort in his fight ending. He fought a good fight. He finished his course. His family will keep the faith and continue his legacy.