John Edward Beggs Jr

John Edward Beggs Jr., 74, of Decatur, died Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Mt. Zion Health and Rehab Center.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Macon County Memorial Park. In keeping with his wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home are assisting the family with arrangements.
John was born April 30, 1952, in Decatur, IL, to John E. Beggs Sr. and Bertha (Stokes) Beggs. He graduated from Lakeview High School in Decatur and later served in the United States Marine Corps. On January 14, 1984, he married Diane Rieman at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Decatur.
After his service in the Marine Corps, John worked at Firestone Tire in Decatur. He later joined the Decatur Police Department, where he served for nearly 30 years before retiring as a detective in 2006. He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. John enjoyed riding motorcycles, shooting with friends, and collecting historical memorabilia. He had a private pilot’s license, sky dived, and scuba dived with Diane. Most of all, he cherished spending time with his family. He enjoyed playing video games with David and working in the garage with Michael.
He is survived by his wife, Diane Beggs of Decatur; his two sons, David and Michael; his daughter Maria; and grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his stepmother, Margaret Beggs.