Robert Jo Laird

Robert (Bob) Jo Laird, age 75, of Pace, Florida, passed away surrounded by love at his home on July 1, 2026, after a seven-year battle with cancer. Bob was born in Danville, Illinois on June 8th, 1951, to the late Robert Louis Laird, and the late Joan (Cage) Laird. He graduated Westville High School (IL) in 1969, and then earned an Associate of Applied Science in Data Processing at Danville Junior College (IL) in 1972. After enlisting in the U. S. Army and completing Basic Training in Fort Polk, LA, he was selected to join the Signal School in Fort Gordon, GA, trained as a Telecommunications Specialist, and worked overseas in Taipei, Taiwan as well as the Pentagon in his specialization. While stationed at Fort Gordon, GA, he met the late Margaret (Genie) (Bruker) Laird, whom he was married to until her passing in 2004. Upon completion of his service in the Army, Bob returned to Danville, Illinois to be near his family and served as a recruiter for the Illinois Army National Guard for 12 years. During his 21 years of military service Bob’s strong work ethic, leadership skills, and dedication to duty earned him several awards, such as the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, and the Sargent Major’s Award. During Operation Desert Storm, Bob’s supervisors recognized his exceptional care and regard for soldiers and their families. Growing up, Bob demonstrated a natural ability and strong interest in sports, and could be seen throughout his life on the basketball court, softball field, golf course or playing table tennis. As a boy he enjoyed going to the library, YMCA, and participating in church events. Fascinated by baseball statistics, he followed the ups and downs of the Cubbies throughout his life with the fortitude of a long-suffering, but steadfast fan. Committed to life-long learning, Bob earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Western Illinois University in 1998, and a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Southern Arkansas University in 2015. Licensed to teach social studies, science, and language arts within both the public and private school systems, he also served as a basketball coach and sports scorekeeper. Blessed with a great sense of humor, students enjoyed hearing “Mr. Laird” tell his many stories about life’s lessons and adventures. After retiring from teaching, Bob moved to Florida where he and his wife Karen enjoyed spending time at the beach. Throughout his life, Bob was dedicated to loving and supporting his family. Time spent with his children, grandchildren and extended family was precious to him and brought him great joy. Service to his church family over the years was given with a spirit of kindness and gratitude. During his life Bob advocated for the needs of children, the elderly, and disadvantaged adults.

Bob will be dearly missed by his devoted wife of 22 years, Karen A. Ferneding, Ph.D.; his two daughters and their husbands, Matthew and Keri Beth (Laird) Lamb of Catlin, IL, and Justin and Holly Jean (Laird) Holder of Belton, TX, his stepdaughter and her husband Jodie (Lieb) and Dan Saccani; his two sisters and their spouses, John and Donna L. (Laird) McMahon of Danville, IL and Mark and Cheryl E. (Laird) Ketcherside of Westville, IL; his two grandchildren who called him “Grandpa Bob”, Natalie Lamb and Sydney Holder, as well as a host of extended family members and friends.

Memorial services will be held on Sunday August 2nd at Crossroads Christian Church, located at 3613 N Vermillion Street, Danville, Illinois 61832, beginning at 4pm, with reception to follow.