Robert Wiley “Bob” Calvert, 87, died on Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026, at his home in Hillsboro.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A private burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery. The family is hosting a celebration of life on Monday, Sept. 21, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the Challacombe House, located at 509 School Street, in Hillsboro.
Mr. Calvert was born in Paris to Mills and Maurine (nee Wiley) Calvert on Aug. 9, 1939. He grew up in Decatur and was a member of the last graduating class from Decatur High School in 1957. He proudly served in the United States Army before continuing his education at the University of Illinois and Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in finance.
Coins were a lifelong passion for Mr. Calvert. During college, he even sold coin supplies to fellow collectors to make extra money. He later became a member of the Hiltop Coin Club and enjoyed attending coin shows throughout his life.
After college, he worked as a sales representative for Lipton Tea before beginning his career in accounting with Kemper Accounting Group. He eventually opened his own accounting and tax preparation business, with his office located in the Farm Bureau Building.
Mr. Calvert never met a stranger. He was funny, outgoing and genuinely enjoyed visiting with people. He was active in his community throughout the years, including involvement with the Jaycees, Hillsboro Lions Club and Chamber of Commerce. In the 1980’s, he served on the Red Cross Board in Litchfield, and in the 1990’s, he served on the Hillsboro Hospital Board. He also served on the Montgomery County Thrivent Board.
A lifelong car enthusiast, he enjoyed car shows and was especially proud of his red 1967 Ford Mustang, that he had proudly owned for 57 years. Each year, he had the honor of driving the Old Settlers Queen, and even Miss Illinois once, around town in his beloved convertible. He also served as a DJ for the Wolf Pack Car Club. He enjoyed coaching his daughter’s little league softball team, the Lions. His love of music included rock and roll of the 1950’s and 1960’s as well as jazz.
His two children, Kris and Britt, were born to him from a previous marriage to Norma Jane Huckelbridge. On Oct. 19, 1991, in Hillsboro, he married Carol Ann Vincent, and welcomed her child, Mary, into the family.
Mr. Calvert was a man of faith. In his younger years, he was a member of the First Christian Church of Decatur. He later visited St. Paul’s Lutheran Church with his wife, Carol. Towards the end of his life, he enjoyed attending Hillsboro Free Methodist Church.
He is survived by his wife, Carol, of Hillsboro; children, Kris (Mike) Taylor of Hillsboro and Britt Calvert of Irving; stepdaughter, Mary (Jack) Mutchler of Hillsboro; grandchildren, Karagan (Josiah) Romoser of New Mexico, Samuel (Brianna) Taylor of Mt. Olive, Benjamin ( Aly Fenton) Taylor of Litchfield and Kelsey (Evan) Kershaw of Donnellson; step-grandchildren, Logan (Meagan) Mutchler of Hillsboro, Jacob (Zijing Zhang) Mutchler of St. Louis, MO, Lydia Mutchler of Hillsboro, Matt (Ming) Edwards of Evansville, IN, Erick (Kathy) Taylor of Hillsboro and Ashley Maland of St. Charles, MO; seven great-grandchildren; sister, Barb (Don) MacCrimmon of Madison, WI; and extended family and friends.
Preceding him in death are his parents, Mills and Maurine; as well as his brother, Bill Calvert.
Memorials in Mr. Calvert’s honor may be made to the Old Settlers Association, P.O. Box 584, Hillsboro, Il 62049, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Please visit www.houghdeanfh.com to share condolences with the family. Hough-Dean Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
