Robert Smith

Robert William Smith, 79 of Edinburg passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 5:43 a.m. at his home in Edinburg. He was born on September 9, 1946, in Joliet, IL, the son of Robert E. and Dora (Garza) Smith. He married Rebecca Sue Cronister on July 24, 1987, in Springfield, IL.

Bob served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War where he received a Purple Heart. He Graduated from University High School in Normal, IL where he was involved in sports and theater. Bob coached football, baseball, and softball in the central Illinois area. He is proud of coaching his girls in softball while in Edinburg. Bob thoroughly enjoyed his retirement where he spent all the time he could around his grandchildren. He was a member of the South Fork Church in Rochester, lifetime member of Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

Bob is survived by his wife Rebecca Smith of Edinburg, IL; Children: Norman Hysler, Chrystal (Chris) Purkes, Kelly Braun, Christopher Smith, Kirsten Holderread, Eric (Rachel) Smith, Kim (Matt) Peabody, Stacy (Stephen) Wieland, Casey (Collin) Dooley and Megan (Evan) Peters; twenty-six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; siblings: Frank Smith, Hank Smith, Freda and Suzy and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother: Jerry Smith.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. with Pastor Dave Johnson officiating. Burial will be in Camp Butler National Cemetery with Military Honors.

Memorials may be made to South Fork Church in Rochester, IL