Robert Allen Byers, 73, of Jacksonville, IL, passed away Sunday, October 27, 2024, at his residence.

He was born December 2, 1950, in Jacksonville, the son of Lloyd Byers and Irene Strubbe.

He is survived by two brothers, John Byers and Larry Byers, both of Jacksonville; two sisters, Vickie Bolinger of Princeton and Susan Gaudio (Fiancé Brad Zeller) of Jacksonville; six nieces and nephews, Mike (Kimmie) Byers and Mandy (Billy) Leib, both of Jacksonville, Tonya (Eric) Crow of New Berlin, Jennifer Love of Princeton, George Bolinger of Shelbyville, and Andrew Lockman of St. Louis, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Ronald Byers; his niece, Kayleigh Byers; sister-in-law, Debbie Byers; and brother-in-law, Tony Gaudio.

Bob was a 1969 graduate of Jacksonville High School. He then attended Western Illinois University. He was a sports editor for Jacksonville Journal Courier. He then worked at Beard Implement until his retirement. Bob was active in the JHS and Jacksonville Hall of Fame and served on the Berea Cemetery Board. He was also active in the Jacksonville Area Museum and a member of the Elks Club.

Bob was a stout St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan and enjoyed all sports. He enjoyed golfing with life-long friends whenever possible. After retirement, he filled his time by keeping score for local baskeball teams. He also loved gathering with his family.

A memorial funeral service will be held 12 PM, Friday, November 1, 2024, at the Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville. The family will meet friends from 10AM until the time of service. Burial will take place at a later date. Memorials are suggested to Berea Cemetery, Jacksonville Area Hall of Fame, or Jacksonville Area Museum. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be left online at buchanancody.com.