Clarence Byers

Clarence E. "Sonny" Byers passed away peacefully at home early Tuesday morning (July 10, 2012) with his mate and best friend Sonnie Buetzer by his side. Celebration of Life services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, July 13, at Brintlinger & Earl Funeral Home, Decatur, with visitation 4-8 p.m. Thursday, July 12, at the funeral home, with Masonic services conducted by the Mt. Auburn Kedron Lodge #340 AF & AM at 8:00 p.m. Burial will be in Salem Cemetery, Decatur, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Macon Fire Department. Sonny was born January 27, 1936, in Decatur, IL, son of Raymond and Dorothy (Floyd) Byers. Sonny attended Blue Mound High School and graduated from Niantic High School in 1954. He graduated from Cohne Radio & TV Service in Chicago, IL in 1954. Sonny organized Union Local 713 United Rubber Workers at Firestone in Decatur, IL, and was a charter member and 1st president. He also organized Firestone Credit Union and years later was the only charter member and was still a member of the Credit Union as it merged with Staley Credit Union. Sonny was also involved in organizing the union at the Macon County Sheriff Department. He was a member of the Christian County Farm Bureau. Sonny retired from the Macon County Sheriffs Department in 1989 after 23 years of service. After retiring, he graduated from Rupperts School of Auctioneers, and was a crop adjuster for Rain & Hail, for 15 years. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, traveling, genealogy, his loving family and many friends. Surviving are his mate and best friend Sonnie Buetzer, together since February 14, 1998; sons Jim Byers of Lockport, IL, Jeff (Debbie) Byers of Mt. Zion, IL; daughter Sandy Belcher of Decatur, IL; grandchildren Elayna Byers, Emilee Byers, Kristin (Ryan) Pinkston, Kelle Belcher, Josh (Stacy) Byers, Rachel Byers, Abby Byers, and Rachel Akers; great-grandchildren Camryn, Lincoln, Adrianna and Madylin. Also surviving are his brothers Jack (Kay) Byers of Henderson, NV, Bob (Linda) Byers of Harristown, IL; sisters Mary Ann Hall of Decatur, IL, and Neena (Greg) Lockett of Columbia, MO. Sonny was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Donald "Pinch" and William "Bill" Byers. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to St. John's Hospice, Dr. Esparaz, Kim, Debbie W., Shirley, Debbie K., and Janet for the loving care given to Sonny during his journey. "
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