John "Sam" Bailey Vancil went to be with the Lord on July 6, 2025, at the age of 94, after a life filled with love, service, and devotion.
Sam was born on June 21, 1931, to Miles and Annabell (Bailey) Vancil in Du Quoin, Illinois. He was the eldest of three sons. Although his parents passed away when he was young, Sam and his brothers, Bill and Howard, were lovingly raised by their grandparents, Joseph and Elizabeth Bailey. Working on the Bailey farm instilled in Sam a strong work ethic—one he carried throughout his life and passed on to his children and grandchildren.
Sam attended Du Quoin high school, and it was during a Rural Youth after-school activity that he met Dorothy Elaine (Timpner) Vancil, the love of his life.  After High school he worked in the coal mines but was drafted to the United States Army to assist in the Korean Conflict where he worked as a Radar Technician.  While on leave, Sam and Elaine were united in marriage at St. Paul's E & R Church in Pinckneyville, IL on August 9th, 1952 where they began their lifelong partnership filled with an enduring love.
Sam and Elaine were stationed at Army bases in Texas and later Washington during the time they welcomed their first of five children, Deborah (Bandy).  After his honorable discharge from the Army, the family of three returned to Pinckneyville where the family continued to grow welcoming David and a little over a year later Roger (Dennis).  Sam and Elaine built a house on the same ground he grew up on and soon Sam's brothers built across the street on Bailey Lane.  Sam and Elaine completed their family with the addition of Darryl and Denise.  Sam worked in the coal mines for 38 years (shovel operator) before taking a role at the Illinois Department of Natural Resources where he worked as the Assistant Director for the Department of Mines and Minerals.
In addition to his professional work, Sam was deeply committed to public service. He served on both the Sunfield and Du Quoin School Boards for an astounding 58 years.  He was recognized by the Illinois House of Representatives as the longest-serving board member in the state as of 2017.  He also was a pillar at his family church, Sunfield United Methodist Church serving in multiple capacities of leadership throughout the years.
Sam was also a longtime member of the Sunfield Church choir and at one time, sang in the Sunfield Quartet. He was often found working around the house, humming or singing some of his favorites—"Turn Your Radio On," "Just a Little Talk with Jesus,"  and "Mairzy Doats and Dozy Doats and Liddle Lamzy Divey"—in his rich bass voice.  Sam enjoyed doing wood working and farming alongside his sons.  These two areas also hold special memories for many of his grandkids and great grandkids who were included in rides on the tractors.  Sam was known by those close to him for his playful or pestering spirit. He first met his wife by teasingly trying to trip her—a gesture that marked the beginning of a lifetime of laughter and love. Their lightheartedness was a hallmark of their relationship, and those close to Sam and Elaine were blessed to witness the joy and deep affection they shared.
Sam is survived by his beloved wife of 72 years, Elaine, along with their five children, nine grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren, all of whom carry cherished memories and a deep love for family and God.
Survivors include:  Daughter, Deborah and her husband Dan Bandy of Herrin along with their children & grandchildren Tony & Laura McLaughlin (Annabelle, Lillian, Bennett & Flynn), Ross Bandy and Jane Powers (Austyn) and Derrick & Rebekah Seabaugh (Keegan, Annika & Mikayla).  Son, David and his wife Debbie of Du Quoin along with their children & grandchildren Tim and Jennifer Craft (Cy & Ava), John and Jessi Vancil (Sam, Josh & Laney) and Brian and Mindy Tackitt (Lincoln, Ledger & Lankston).  Son, Dennis of Du Quoin.  Son, Darryl and his wife Beth of Du Quoin along with their children and grandchildren Bailey and Heather Vancil (Max & Hailey) and Brooke Vancil and Weston Kabat (Jake).  Daughter, Denise and Tim Smith of Du Quoin along with their son's family Andrew & Summer Smith (Elaina).
Sam was preceded in death by his parents Miles & Annabell Vancil and his two brothers Bill (and his wife Norma) and Howard (and his wife Nellie).
Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at the Sunfield Community Church in Sunfield, IL with Pastor Carman Wuebbels officiating.
Friends may call from 9 A.M. until the time of service on Wednesday at the church.
Burial will be in the Sunset Memorial Park in Du Quoin, IL.
Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Du Quoin V.F.W. and American Legion and the Army National Guard.
Memorial contributions can be made to Sunfield Community Church or to the Du Quoin Education Foundation for a memorial scholarship.
Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.