Roy Leverne Lavender, 86, of Hurst, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 5, 2026, in Carbondale, Illinois, surrounded by his loving family.
Roy was born on October 14, 1939, in Bush, Illinois, the son of the late Roy M. and Thelma Faye (O’Brien) Lavender.
On February 17, 1961, Roy married the love of his life, Sharon Kathleen Ballard. Together, they shared more than 62 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, family, and many cherished memories. Sharon preceded him in death on September 7, 2023.
Roy worked in the coal mines for more than 15 years before retiring. He was a hardworking and devoted husband and father who took great pride in providing for his family. Despite his hard work, Roy always made time for the things he enjoyed most. He loved hunting, fishing, and singing, but above all, his greatest joy came from spending time with his children and grandchildren. His family was the center of his life, and the memories they shared with him will be treasured for generations to come.
Roy is survived by his sons, Aaron (Barbara) Lavender of Ava, Illinois, and Matthew (Heather) Lavender of Carterville, Illinois; grandchildren, Jeremy Lavender of Ava, Tyler Lavender of Percy, Austin Lavender of Carterville, Hannah Lavender of Carterville, Cody Lavender of Christopher, Dustin Fleming of Vergennes; Devon Clifford of Hurst; great-grandchildren, Aubrey Ann Lavender of Woodlawn and Taylyn Lavender of Christopher; Layla and Corbin Fleming of Vergennes; and his brother, James Lavender of Energy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy M. and Thelma Faye Lavender; his beloved wife, Sharon Kathleen Lavender; daughters; Rebecca Clifford and Judith Lavender; his brother, Dennis Lavender; and his sister, Janet Ansinelli.
A graveside service honoring the lives of Roy and Sharon Lavender will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at Blairsville Cemetery, with Reverend Paul Hicks officiating.
Walker Funeral Home and Crematory of Southern Illinois is honored to serve the Lavender family and has been entrusted with the arrangements.
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