Ra Joo, 48, was taken off life support on Friday, January 8th after surgery complications. His passing came as a shock, and we are devastated. He taught us to be kind, to laugh loudly, and to never doubt ourselves when pursuing a goal.

Livestream services will be 10:00am Friday and may be viewed at https://www.wheelanpressly.com/live-stream. Private visitation will be held at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island. Cremation rites will be accorded following the services and inurnment will be held in Rock Island Memorial Park Cemetery at a later date.

He was born in Mawlamyine, Myanmar, but lived in Nupo Refugee Camp in Thailand for 21 years. In Thailand, Ra Joo obtained his Massage Therapy certification and spent his free time cooking meals for his teachers. He arrived in the U.S. in 2019 with a couple of his friends.

Ra Joo's smile could bring light to any room. Cooking was his favorite hobby, and he loved to share his meals in the company of others. He found comfort in praying and joy in listening to music. We will remember him for his eagerness to learn and practice English, compassion, positive attitude, smile, and laugh. He will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his friends, Noe La and Samson Joel.

He was preceded in death by his parents.