Roy Gene Grayling, Sr.

Roy Gene Grayling, Sr., 76, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2024, at his home in Beckemeyer, IL. He was born on January 16, 1948, in Breese, IL, the son of Oscar and Alice (nee Deerhake) Grayling. He married Penelope Szczebleski September 26, 1970 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Beckemeyer and she preceded him in death on July 22, 2019.

Roy is survived by his children: James (Katie) Grayling, Jennifer (special friend, Tim Parent) Grayling, Bret Grayling, Bart (Jennifer) Grayling, Trisha (Tim) Burnett, and Roy "Pup" (Rachele) Grayling, Jr. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Dakota, Grace, Nathan, Gene, Kevin, Bryce, Taylor, Cayden, Tucker, Colton, and Chloe, as well as six great-grandchildren, all of whom were bright lights in his life. He also leaves behind his siblings, Jayne Johnson, Wayne(Rhonda)Grayling, Cindy Utley(Ed)and Sam(Betty)Grayling;Brother and Sisters in law, Guy(Nettie)Szczeblewski, Rhonda(Ron)Becker, Lucy(Mark)Zartman, Cindy Will, Sandy(Joseph)Koch, Kathy(Roy)Szczeblewski, Rita Szczeblewski, Cee Smith, Carla(Mike) Sanders, Joyce(Craig)Huelsmann, Jay(Dana)Szczeblewski, Clay(Tracy)Szczeblewski, Gary Lowe, Lou Szczeblewski and numerous nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward in their hearts.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Judith and Connie, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carl and Rose Szczebleski, Brothers and Sister-in-laws; Earnie Szczeblewski, Tom Szczeblewski, Bernie Lowe and Shaun Will. 

Roy served in the Army during the Vietnam War, exemplifying dedication to his country. Roy had a fulfilling career that spanned over 40 years with Leon and Greg Kuhl at Kuhl Lumber and Pallet, where he proudly worked as a logger. His commitment to his work mirrored his passion for life, a quality that endeared him to all who knew him. Outside of his professional endeavors, Roy had a profound love for fishing and found joy in aggravating his children, a testament to his lighthearted spirit and playful nature.

Visitation will be held on August 24, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Nordike Funeral Home in Carlyle, IL. Burial will follow at Posey Cemetery. As family and friends gather to honor Roy's life, they will remember a man whose kindness, humor, and dedication made an indelible mark on all who knew him. His spirit will forever be celebrated.

Memorials made in memory of Roy may be made to the charity of the donor's choice and will be received at the funeral home.