BYRON– Bruce E. Carby, 77, of Byron, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, April 3, 2020 at the Zilber Family Hospice in Wauwatosa, Wis. He was born on October 4, 1942 in Streator, Ill., the son of Esthel and Mildred (Larson) Carby.

He graduated from Streator High School in 1960 and received his bachelor’s degree from Olivet Nazarene University in 1968. He also received two advanced degrees from Northern Illinois University including a master's in education in 1975 and a master's Certificate of advanced study in 1981. He married Betty Jane Tatman on June 9, 1963 at the First Baptist Church of Streator. They moved to Byron in 1968 and Bruce began his teaching career of 32 years at Byron High School. He taught business and accounting classes and also drove a school bus, coached volleyball and bowling and filmed the Byron football team for a number of years. Bruce also had a TV repair business in Byron for many years.

Bruce enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, and IPSC competitive pistol shooting.  Bruce worshipped and served for many years at the First Baptist Church of Byron, Maywood Evangelical Free Church of Rockford, and the Red Brick Church of Stillman Valley since 2009. 

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Betty Carby of Byron, son Terrell (Terri) Carby of Byron, daughter Laura (Rob) Petrie of Rockford, grandson, Aiden Carby of Byron; brothers Marvin (Valerie) Carby and Larry Carby; sisters Elaine Tatman and Nancy LaBee; and many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents.

A memorial fund is established for the Red Brick Church building fund in Stillman Valley. A private family graveside service will be held at the Byron Cemetery with Rev. Chris Brauns of the Red Brick Church officiating. Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home in Byron is assisting the family. Visit www.farrellhollandgale.com to leave a condolence.