Robert J. White Jr.

Robert J. "Bobby" White Jr., 78, of Metamora, IL, passed away at 12:33 am on Friday May 8, 2026, at his residence.

He was born on February 3, 1948, in Peoria to Robert J. and Dorothy M. (Shivley) White. Sr. He married Brenda I. Wheat on March 28, 1997, in Peoria, IL.

Surviving are his wife, Brenda of Metamora; daughter, Jaime(Brian Easton) Ardis of Peoria IL; son, Robby White of Peoria, IL; stepson Jared (Lacey) Roach of Pepperell MA; grandchildren, Cassidy White, Indie Roach and Avery Roach; siblings, Bonnie (Tim) Campbell of Peoria, IL, William White of Dunlap, IL, and Becky (Kenny) Hoppe of Jacksonville FL. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister-in-law Brenda White.

Bobby attended Manual High School from 1962-1966 and was drafted at 18 after high school to the Vietnam War. Once he returned from service, he joined the Local Peoria Carpenter's Union #237 where he worked as a carpenter and lather until retirement.

A Peoria native, he loved to spend his time supporting any local sporting events, whether it was the Peoria Rivermen, Chiefs, or a relative's high school game. Bobby was a member of the Manual High School baseball team to win the 1965 state title and later, on the Peoria Merchants softball team. He enjoyed bowling and later in life, playing pool at local taverns, drinking Dr. Peppers'. He was a loyal fan to the Chicago Cubs and Boston Celtics. Bobby was an avid dirt late model racing fan, while also attending the Daytona 500 for over 20 years.

He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and grandfather. There was nothing he loved more than a room of laughter, storytelling, and family. He will be greatly missed.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Dunlap American Legion, 5511 Legion Hall Road, Dunlap, IL. 61525. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Peoria Honor Flight, P.O. Box 5072, Peoria, IL 61601-5072. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

DONATIONS

Peoria Honor Flight, P.O. Box 5072, Peoria, IL 61601-5072