Robert Arthur Hennessey

Robert Arthur Hennessey, 85, passed away Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Marion VA Medical Center in Marion surrounded by his loving family.

Robert was born on July 3, 1940, in Greenfield, Mass., to John and Effie (Clark) Hennessey. Robert married Barbara Schlice on Dec. 19, 1967, at the Candlelight Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas.

Robert honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era from 1963-1966, during which he was stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska. After serving in the military, he went to work for Western Union and worked as a senior telegraph manager. He spent the latter part of his career working in the shipping industry as a communication and computer support specialist for Williams Diamond and Mitsui OSK Lines in Long Beach, Calif. Robert and his wife bought a home in the country in Williamson County, Ill., when they retired. Robert was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was an avid fan of 1950s music, possessed a lifelong love for classic old cars and Americana, and enjoyed collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia. He will be remembered most by those who knew him for his gentle, sensitive nature, his quirky sense of humor, and the quiet kindness he extended to everyone.

Robert is survived by his wife of 58 years, Barbara; son Mike Hennessey and daughter-in-law Lisa Hennessey; daughter Kathy Taylor and son-in-law Kris Taylor; and grandchildren Rebecca Colbert, Kathryn Hennessey, Matthew Hennessey, Patrick Hennessey, Alexsandra Taylor, Aron Taylor and Aiden Taylor. He also had seven great-granddaughters, whose recent arrivals brought him joy and comfort in his later days, even though he never had the chance to meet them in person.

He was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings, Jack Hennessey, Jim Hennessey, Connie Williamson and Paul Hennessey.

Private family services will be held.

Memorials may be made in Robert’s name to St. Francis Care, Murphysboro.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Robert, visit meredithfh.com.