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Michael James Behringer
Michael James Behringer of Southampton and Peoria, Illinois, died on December 2, after a brief illness. He was 36.
He grew up in Southampton, surrounded by his loving, joyful and boisterous family that shared and celebrated many holidays together, from huge Thanksgiving dinners to Fourth of July parties at the beach. Among the many memories his family holds dear, his family said, are the beach trailer sleepovers in Southampton, camping trips to St. John, U.S. Virgin Island & Tortola, B.V.I, and the countless outings and experiences that surrounded the holidays. He will be remembered for his love of the beach and surfing, the NY Giants football team, his warmth, empathy and love of friends and family.
He was an active member of the Southampton community as he grew up, playing for the Southampton High School football and lacrosse teams. He served for many years as a lifeguard at Cooper’s Beach, a place from which he drew personal strength. Poseidon would be proud, his family said. He graduated from College of Charleston in 2008, and moved to Peoria in 2014.
He is survived by his parents, Michael and Cheryl Collins Behringer of Southampton; his wife Brynne Behringer and their three children, Charlie, 6, Will, 4 and Savannah, 2 of Peoria; his brother Steven and his wife Samantha Behringer of Charleston, South Carolina; as well as a large family of grandparents, aunts, uncles, and many devoted cousins.
A visitation will be held at Brockett Funeral Home Friday, December 16, from 4–7 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m., Saturday, December 17. A reception will follow the memorial service at the North Sea Firehouse. Throughout his life, he was most at peace at the beach, and the family will plan a gathering in his honor there in the upcoming spring/summer.
Staff Writer on Dec 12, 2022