Chris A. Royal, 69, of Buckeye, AZ died August 15, 2025. He was born in Portsmouth, Virginia on September 6, 1955, the son of Lowell and Eileen Royal. Chris is preceded in death by his father, Lowell Royal, and his loving wife, Susan Royal.

After Chris was born in the Portsmouth, VA naval hospital, the family moved to Decatur, IL, and eventually settled in Springfield, IL, where Chris lived for most of his life. He graduated from Springfield High School in 1973, and attended Butler University, before graduating from Western Illinois University in 1977.

He began his career in banking in January 1978 at Union National Bank in Macomb, IL (where he met Susan), and worked at several other banks, including National City, Chase, Jacksonville Savings Bank, and CNB Bank and Trust. After retiring in 2021, he moved to Buckeye, AZ to enjoy retired life with his wife, Susan. His favorite part of retirement was visiting his grandkids, Josh and Hannah, and having them come visit in Arizona.

Chris volunteered for Big Brother Big Sister, Festival of Trees, and the LPGA State Farm Classic in Springfield, and counted money after Sunday service for many years at Laurel United Methodist Church. He loved to golf, attend concerts, and spend time with his family. He will be remembered for being a selfless, caring, loyal, and dedicated husband, father, brother, son, and friend.

He is survived by his son Brian (Kaitlin), grandkids Josh and Hannah Royal of Prosper, TX, mother, Eileen Royal, brothers Greg Royal of Springfield, John (Teresa) Royal of Gravois Mills, MO, niece Bryn Royal of Milan, IL, and nephew Mike (Amy) and grandnephew Bear Royal of Milan, IL, niece, Sarah Sosinski, and cousins Brad Royal, Gary Royal, and Deb Newbold.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Laurel United Methodist Church in Springfield, IL on Thursday, September 11 with family visitation beginning at 5:00 PM and the service following at 6:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Laurel United Methodist Church at 631 South Grand Avenue West, Springfield, IL 62704. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is assisting the family. Condolences may be left at buchanancody.com.