John D. Roberts

A beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, a family man, John D (Doug) Roberts, 94, of Decatur passed away peacefully on November 8, 2026.

Doug was born February 10,1932 on the family farm in Duvall, Shelby County, Illinois. He was the oldest son of William and Hazel Roberts. He lived a long and meaningful life doing what he loved most, farming. He understood the value of hard work, dedication, and patience. Not only did he farm he also retired from Mueller Co in Decatur after 40 years. Doug proudly served his country in the army during the Korean War. He was a member of the Church of Christ. He was a talented woodworker, making everything from kitchen cabinets to a cradle and baby bed for his grandchildren.

He shared 70 wonderful years with his beloved wife, Della Jean Hardy from May 10,1954 until her passing January 7, 2025. He was the proud father of two daughters Debra Kay and Sharon Diane who will remember him for the life he built, the lessons he taught and the memories he left behind. He absolutely adored his 5 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. They brought him tremendous joy and he treasured each and every one of them.

Preceding him in death are his parents, his wife Della, his sister Maxine and brothers-in-law Foster Hurst and Lloyd (Wilson) Darnell.

He leaves behind his daughters Debbie Moore and husband Craig and Sharon Russell and husband Mike; grandchildren Emily Beever (Jim), Trent Moore (Angela), Jonathan Russell (Brittany), Drew Moore (Kristin), and Jessica Busch (Ryan); great grandchildren Logan Hobdy, Daniel Moore, Lily Moore, Sophia Russell, Noah Moore, Charlotte Russell, Noelle Moore and William Moore. He is also survived by his sisters Rosemary Darnell and Lorna Ikemire (Bob Hubbartt) and brothers Kenneth Roberts (Georgia) and Loren Roberts (Sharon). He was a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews who were also an important part of his life.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at The Carriages Assisted Living for the wonderful care, kindness, and friendship they showed him. Their compassion and dedication meant so much to him and his family, and they will always be grateful for the love and support they provided.

While saying goodbye is incredibly difficult, the love Doug gave his family will remain a part of them always. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and remembered with every story, every laugh, and every memory shared.

Funeral service will be held at Brintlinger Funeral Home, Decatur, on Wednesday November 11, 2026, at 11:00am with visitation one hour prior. Burial with military honors will follow at Macon County Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the Carriages of Decatur.