Ralph "Chip" Richardson Moodie

Ralph “Chip” Richardson Moodie, 79, of Bradford, passed away on December 27, 2025, in Peoria. Chip was born in Princeton, Illinois, to Robert and Elizabeth “Betty” Moodie of Bradford.

Chip married his beloved wife, Jody (Jones), of Davenport, Iowa, on June 22, 1974. They celebrated 50 years of marriage last year with a joyous party and a family vacation to Cook, Minnesota.

Chip and Jody were blessed with three sons: Aaron and his wife Tiffany and their daughter Bridget of Hopewell; Corey, who sadly passed away in 2012 but is survived by his wife Wendy and their children, Lane and Haylie of Bradford; and Matthew, his wife Jennifer and their three children: Asher, Grace, and Zeke of Medford, Wisconsin. Chip took great pride in his children and grandchildren and their many accomplishments.

He is also survived by his sister, Jerrell, and her husband, Andy Bills, of Troy, New Hampshire.

Chip graduated from Bradford High School in 1964 and attended Illinois State University, where he served on the Beef Judging Team and earned a degree in Agricultural Education in 1968. He went on to teach agriculture at Nokomis High School and Wethersfield High School. He was awarded the Honorary FFA Chapter Degree in recognition of his contributions. Chip fondly recalled his experiences as an FFA Advisor and his role as a chaperone on a six-week trip to Europe. He was also an avid sports fan, cheering on the Fighting Illini and the Chicago Bears.

Beyond his roles as a husband, father, and grandfather, Chip cherished his role as a farmer. For 38 years, he worked for John Deere while also farming at home alongside his father and sons, ensuring that his family legacy lives on.

Chip placed his faith in his Lord Jesus Christ and was baptized at Bunker Hill Church, where he was a member and served as deacon and Sunday School teacher. His faith was evident through his service to others. Chip and Jody devoted their time and expertise to ten medical mission trips to Haiti. He served as a member of the Bradford School Board for 14 years, a member of the Bradford Scholarship Committee and held the position of Osceola Township Clerk for nearly 30 years.

An avid boater and water skier, Chip achieved the notable feat of barefoot water skiing. He was instrumental in the formation of the Bradford Sno Blazers snowmobiling club and roasted hogs for over 40 years in support of the Bradford Rescue Squad. He also brought the Bradford Labor Day Parade to life, with his vibrant commentary and unmistakable baritone voice.  Chip will be missed by all who loved him.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm -7:00 pm on Friday, January 2, 2026 at Bunker Hill Church in Buda. Funeral Service will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Bunker Hill Church with Pastor Chantha Chhim officiating. Burial will immediately follow at Bradford Cemetery in Bradford, IL.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bunker Hill Church Mission Fund, Apostolic Christian Skylines or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.