Robert A. Brooks, 87, of Tamaroa, passed away at 10:28 P.M., Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at the Marshall Browning Hospital in Du Quoin.
Bob had been a long wall machine operator at Freeman Coal Mine #6.  He was a member of Nine Mile Baptist Church in Tamaroa, where he was an assistant RA leader and assistant softball coach for the boys.  He also helped his wife, Marilyn, teach Sunday School.  Bob had been a United States Air Force veteran.  He was a member of UMWA and NRA.
He was born December 3, 1937 in Du Quoin, IL, the son of Hallie and Elva Arlene (Wilks) Brooks.
He married Marilyn S. Thompson on May 21, 1960 at Paradise Baptist Church in Tamaroa and she survives.  They were married almost sixty-five years.
He is survived by his wife of Tamaroa, three daughters - Tami Alvis and husband David of Du Quoin, Beth Vancil and husband Darryl of Du Quoin, and Heather Opp and husband Scott of Tamaroa, eight grandchildren - Bailey Vancil and wife Heather, Brooke Vancil (Weston Kabat), Shania Opp and boyfriend Brady Louis, Dylan Opp and wife Savannah, Tobias Alvis and family, Devoney Alvis, Jaymon Alvis, and Jaron Alvis and wife Heather, seven great grandchildren - Max and Hailey Vancil, Jake Kabat, Tatum Opp, Beau Opp, Imani Alvis, Everly Alvis, and Wrenly Alvis, special friend and neighbor - Paul Krone, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother - William L. Brooks, sister-in-law - Charlene Brooks and father-in-law and mother-in-law - Earl and Frances Thompson.
Funeral services will be at 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at the Nine Mile Baptist Church in Tamaroa with Rev. Kevin Carrothers and Rev. Robby Hagerman officiating.
Friends may call from 4 to 7 P.M., Monday 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 United States Air Force.
Friends may make memorials to Nine Mile Baptist Church or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and will be accepted at the church or funeral home.
Searby Funeral Home in Tamaroa is in charge of arrangements.