Leland Ray Schaefer

Leland Ray Schaefer, age 70, of Carlyle, departed this life on November 14, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in O’Fallon. Born on June 29, 1955, in Centralia, Illinois, he was the son of Leo and Mary (Marshall) Schaefer. Leland cherished his marriage to Kathleen Higgins, which began in November 1981 in Keyesport, Illinois.

He is survived by his wife, Kathleen, and two sons, Heath Schaefer and Seth Schaefer, both of Carlyle. Leland also leaves behind his granddaughter, Amalie Schaefer; two brothers, Carl Schaefer of Irvington and Larry Kesterson of Bethany, Illinois; and two sisters, Lacretia and Sue, both of Virginia. In addition, he is survived by his sisters-in-law, Patricia Higgins of Carlyle, Dorothy Higgins of Trenton, and Violet Redman of Texas, as well as his brother-in-law, Elmer Higgins. And his best friend, Robert “Boomer” Wright of Highland.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers-in-law, Delbert Higgins and Raymond Higgins, as well as his sister-in-law, Sharon Jackson.

Leland was passionate about drag racing, having raced his prized 1967 Camaro in stock/super stock during the 1970s. He not only enjoyed racing but also served as the crew chief for his niece, Leslie Lucas Fitch, for over a decade in the Lucas Oil Division, Summit Racing, and many national events across the Midwest. In addition to racing, Leland found peace and happiness in fishing.

In accordance with Lee's wishes, there will be no funeral services held.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of Lee are suggested to his family, with contributions being accepted at Nordike Funeral Home, 740 Fairfax Street, Carlyle, IL 62231. Checks may be made payable to Kathleen Schaefer.

The Schaefer family is being cared for by Nordike Funeral Home in Carlyle.