John Kent Hobbs

On July 12, 2024 John Kent Hobbs lost his battle with kidney failure, just shy of his 79th birthday. John is survived by his older sister Gloria Travaille, his wife Patricia (Pat) of 57 years, his son William (Will) Hobbs and his wife Carrie, and two grandchildren Vivian and Alex. Born on August 7, 1945 in Clayton, MO and raised in Collinsville, IL by John M. and Roselyn Hobbs, John was a bit of a rascal but always given to great sentimentality. He often spoke of exceeding expectations by graduating from Southern Illinois University with a degree in Political Science and a Masters in International Relations, ice skating alone at night, eating at The Forum in St. Louis, and the first time he met his wife. After meeting and marrying Patricia, they settled in Carthage, IL where he taught Political Science at Robert Morris Junior College. While living in Hancock County, he proudly helped found the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP), a first-of-its-kind senior services group in the five surrounding counties. John and his family moved to Macomb, IL in 1977 where he pursued a career at Western Illinois University, working with the Sponsored Projects department, Student Services, and COEHS Deans Office, retiring in 2004. He and his wife Patricia also belonged to the Upper Mississippi Coast Guard Auxiliary, teaching boater safety, conducting boat inspections, and performing search-and-rescues. John loved collecting model trains, Great Lakes nautical history, hobby photography, trout fishing, cigars on the patio overlooking his spacious back yard, and Chex Mix. He was spiritual in nature and believed in a greater good through community. In his life, he belonged to the DeMolays (as a youth), as well as Lions and Kiwanis Clubs. He was a loyal friend and neighbor, a caring father, and of course a loving husband. He will be sorely missed. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday July 18, 2024 at the Macomb Wesley United Methodist Church with Pastor Don Long Officiating. Where visitation will be from 9:30 am until 11:00 am prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the St. Louis Mercantile Library (https://giving.umsl.edu). Dodsworth-Piper-Wallen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Please sign the guestbook and leave condolences at www.dodsworthfh.com Memorial Service Thursday, July 18, 2024 11:00 AM Wesley United Methodist Church 1212 W. Calhoun Street Macomb,IL 61455 Visitation Thursday, July 18, 2024 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM Wesley United Methodist Church 1212 W. Calhoun Street Macomb,IL 61455 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of John, please visit our Tree Store.