Bobby D. Markotay, Sr., 61, of Du Quoin, passed away at 3:03 P.M., Saturday, February 7, 2026 at his residence in Du Quoin, IL.
Bob was born November 25, 1964 in Red Bud, IL.  He graduated from Pinckneyville High School in 1982.  Bob attended Rend Lake College, completing his welding degree in 1983, and started his career at the Du Quoin Packing Company in maintenance shortly thereafter, later becoming a Maintenance Supervisor at the age of 22.  After the Packing House closed, Bob stayed on as a security guard for two more years.  He started working for Davison Electric shortly after the Packing House closed and while working for Davison Electric, completed a 4-year program at Rend Lake College becoming a Federally Accredited and Licensed Electrician through the Independent Electrical Contractors Union.  In 2009, Bob successfully started his own electrical business, Elessar Electric, which he named after one of his favorite characters, Aragon, in the book The Lord of The Rings.  He ran Elessar Electric up until his death.  Bob was an excellent electrician, one of the best in the business and would not hesitate to help out anyone who needed him.  He was respected in his field and made many lifelong friends throughout his career.
Bob was of the Catholic faith and a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  He enjoyed playing golf, fishing, hunting, camping, canning and cooking.  Bob was a member of the Elks for a short time and an active member of the Eagles.
In March of 1985, he married Teresa Lynn Knapp and she survives.  Bob's companion and special friend, Rita McGuire, who he met in 2024 also survives.
He is survived by one son - Bobby D. Markotay, Jr. of Pinckneyville, IL, one brother - John Markotay and wife Kris of Kell, IL, and one sister - Judy Markotay of Mascoutah, IL.  He also is survived by many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his dad - John Markotay of Sparta, IL, his mother - Deloris Getzie of Pinckneyville, IL and his stepdad - James Getzie, also of Pinckneyville, IL.
Per Bob's request, cremation rites will be accorded.  There will be no public visitation.  Private graveside services will be held at a later date.  A Celebration of Life is being planned and will also be held at a later date to honor Bob's life.
Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.