Literberry — Robert E. "Bobby" Bateman, 76, of Literberry, Illinois, passed away Monday, Aug. 21, 2023, at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville. He was born July 15, 1947, in Virginia, the son of Robert W. and Rose Mary Frank Bateman. Bobby married Dianne E. Moore on Feb. 16, 1973, at Literberry Christian Church. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Hazel Diane Bateman.

Bobby attended the Illinois School for the Deaf in Jacksonville. He was a member of Literberry Christian Church, and he and his wife, Dianne, were former members of the Jacksonville Community Center for the Deaf. Bobby worked at Bound to Stay Bound Books in Jacksonville for more than 30 years, retiring in 2010.

Bobby loved woodworking, fishing and working in his yard. He always had a smile and a joke or funny story to share. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and he enjoyed sharing a good meal with family and friends.

Bobby is survived by his wife of 50 years, Dianne, of Literberry; one son, Jim S. (Stephanie) Bateman, of Arenzville; three grandchildren, Brooklynn H. Bateman, William S. Bateman and Hayden Upchurch; one brother, David Bateman, of Kansas; one sister, Connie Butler, of Jacksonville; one brother-in-law, Tom (Joanne) Moore, of Literberry; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Private family services will be held, with burial at Arcadia Cemetery in rural Jacksonville.

Contributions to help Bobby's family with final expenses may be sent to Jim Bateman, c/o Curry Funeral Home, P.O. Box 407, Pawnee, IL 62558.

Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee is serving the family of Robert E. "Bobby" Bateman. Online condolences may be expressed at www.curryfh.com.