Richard H. Hexdall

MORRIS—Richard H. Hexdall, 79, of Morris, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago with his nieces at his side.
Richard Herbert Hexdall was born on March 17, 1946, in Morris, the son of Chester and Helen Louise (Flatness) Hexdall. He was raised in Lisbon, where he received his early education, and later graduated from Morris Community High School with the class of 1964.
Rich continued his education at the University of Illinois, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture. Following graduation, he returned home to teach for one year at Streator High School. It was during this time that he was approached by Earl Fruland and encouraged to pursue a calling in funeral service. This pivotal moment led Rich to Worsham College of Mortuary Science and ultimately to a lifelong vocation of service.
After completing his mortuary education, Rich joined the Fruland family, where he faithfully served the community for decades. In 2000, he assumed ownership of the funeral home, continuing its long-standing tradition of compassionate care. Rich served families with dignity, humility, and grace for more than 50 years, retiring in January of 2025.
A devoted man of faith, Rich was an active and faithful member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Morris. He also held memberships in the Illinois Funeral Directors Association and the National Funeral Directors Association. In addition to his own congregation, Rich was a steadfast supporter of the local Lutheran churches that have long partnered with and supported Fruland Funeral Home.
Rich was an avid sports fan who enjoyed following Chicago teams. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family, especially the memories made during the annual August trips to Wisconsin. Known for his quiet kindness, unwavering positivity, and dry sense of humor, Rich never sought attention and found joy in life’s simple pleasures, whether it be sharing a meal or good conversation.
He will be remembered as a humble and honorable man, a servant leader, and a true gentleman. Though gone from our sight, Richard H. Hexdall leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, service, and compassionate care to the community he loved so dearly.
Survivors include his brother, Kenneth Hexdall, of North Carolina and his nieces and nephews: Deborah (Robert) Zumbahlen, of Channahon; Dawn (David) Roy, of Mahomet, IL; Eric (Caroline) Hexdall, of North Carolina and Cindy (Matt) Kavanaugh, of Colorado. He is also survived by four great-nieces and great-nephews: Morgan, Austin, Camille, and Ethan, as well as many cousins.
Rich was further blessed with countless dear friends, including LeRoy and Judy Claypool and Gerald and Carolyn Steele. He was also a beloved mentor and “boss” to Savannah Blankenship and later Mary Pearson, both of whom he guided with care and held close to his heart. In addition he also leaves behind his cherished canine companions, Cooper and Prada, who brought him great joy.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Helen Louise Hexdall and one sister, Phyllis Groth.
The family will receive friends for a visitation at Fruland Funeral Home, 121 W. Jefferson St. in Morris, on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026 between the hours of 3 and 7 p.m. Funeral services will follow Monday, Feb. 16, 2026 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Morris at 10 a.m. Richard will then be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery in Morris alongside his parents and sister.
Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Rich’s memory to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 202 W. Jefferson St., Morris, IL 60450.
Family and friends are encouraged to log onto: www.FrulandFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Rich’s memorial page online through social media.
Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes.