Bobby "Bob" Joe Emery

Bobby “Bob” Joe Emery, 89, of Marion, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2024. Born on January 22, 1935, in Marion, Illinois, he was the beloved son of Delbert and Edna (Jeralds) Emery. 

Bob, affectionately known as “Fireball” for his exceptional skills in Fastpitch softball, spent his career as a dedicated salesman for RC Cola, he also maintained their machines and managed the warehouse. He was a hard worker his entire career, even after retirement he worked in maintenance for a local hotel and at the drive-in movie theatre and as a stockman for Wal-Mart. Beyond his work, he was a man of many passions, including his love for gospel music and his unwavering faith as a devoted member of Community Chapel in Marion. Bob had a sharp mind and an incredible ability to recall even the smallest details. He loved traveling with his family. He enjoyed connecting with others through his CB radio, conversing with people from all over the world. 

A generous supporter of the Shriners, Bob’s life was marked by service to his community and a deep love for family. He and his late wife Lana Emery fostered many children over the years, leaving an indelible legacy of kindness and care. 

Bob is survived by his loving daughters: Jeanie Deaton; Kelli (John) Craig; He also leaves behind his cherished granddaughter, Jinny (Patrick Victoria) Crites, great-grandson Zachary (Cassie) Crites, and great-great-grandchildren Claire Kearney and Adrian Crites. Additionally, Bob is survived by his siblings: Jerry (Joy) Emery, and Louise (Alvin) Beasley, along with many beloved nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Joyce Ann, his second wife Lana Emery, his son Bobby Borum, his grandson Paul Deaton, and his siblings: Ralph and Betty Emery, Glenn and Wilma Jean Emery, Delbert Jr. and Vita Emery, Harold Dean Emery, Myrna and Kenneth Smith, Cletus Ray Emery, Retha Mae Emery, and Faye Boles; and son-in-law Mike Deaton. 

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley-Ross. Visitation will be held at Blue Funeral Home located at 1704 N. Court St., Marion, Illinois, on Monday, December 2, 2024, from 5:00 PM-7:00 PM. An additional hour of visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, from 9:30 AM-10:30 AM. Funeral services will begin at 10:30 AM, with pastors Donnie Colson, Tim Jeralds, and John Burnett officiating. Interment to follow in Rosehill Cemetery, Marion, Illinois.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, continuing Bob’s legacy of care and generosity. 

Bob’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were touched by his kindness, humor, and love.