Cleveland Darnell Peete Jr.

Cleveland Darnell Peete Jr. affectionately known as Cleve, 71 of Champaign Illinois was called home on Monday, March 4th, 2024, at 12:11pm in his home. He was an iron-willed man with so much love and integrity that he dedicated his life to his family, his friends, and his community. 

Cleveland was born on December 21, 1952, to the late Cleveland and Lula Mae Peete in Memphis, Tennessee.

He was a great fan of the Chicago cubs, and always attended the Illini Football games on the weekend. He spent a lot of his time on Campus in Champaign, IL at Murphy’s Pub and Legend Lounge. He was also heavily involved in the community and knew so many individuals throughout the Campus Community.

He received his education from the Developmental Service Center in Champaign, IL and worked numerous jobs throughout his life despite his limitations, Cleveland had no limits. His first job was at the ‘House of Chin’, a Chinese Restaurant where he was a Head Chef, and developed a strong bond with the owner, Mr. Chin. He also worked at Campus Sports Wear for many years. His longest and final job was at Murphy's Pub, where he worked throughout the business performing multiple tasks. Cleveland loved to cook, and that is something he expressed throughout his work. 

Those left to cherish his memories are his eight younger brothers: Donald Peete, Issac Peete, Leonard Peete, Melvin Peete, Cliff Peete, John Peete, Steven Peete, Nicholas Peete, Jason Peete and five sisters: Donella Mae Peete, Marie Peete Smith, Patricia Tyler, Latrina Peete, and Ashley Peete; also, a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Cleveland and Lula Mae Peete, his brother, Timothy Peete, and sister Rosemary Sellers.

A celebration of life will commence at noon Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Leek & Sons Funeral Home 1215 W. Bradley Ave., Urbana. A visitation will be held on Monday, March 11, 2024, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Leek & Sons Funeral Home. Burial will be held in Mount Hope Cemetery.

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