Ronald 'Ronnie' J. Sears, Longtime Illinois Resident, Dies at 77

Ronnie Sears was remembered for his love of family, steady presence, and joy in everyday moments.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:28pm

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Ronald 'Ronnie' J. Sears, a longtime resident of Salem, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on March 19, 2026, at the age of 77. Ronnie was born in Centralia, Illinois, and spent his life rooted in southern Illinois, where he built a life centered on family, hard work, and simple joys. He was a dedicated worker, spending 24 years at World Color Press before retiring from Gilster-Mary Lee. Ronnie enjoyed gardening, yard work, hunting, fishing, and attending his grandchildren's sporting events. He will be remembered for his love of family, steady presence, and the joy he found in life's everyday moments.

Why it matters

Ronnie Sears' life story reflects the values and experiences of many longtime residents of southern Illinois, where close-knit communities, strong work ethics, and appreciation for the outdoors have been central to the regional culture for generations.

The details

Ronnie Sears was born on December 26, 1948, in Centralia, Illinois, the son of Robert Gene Sears and Viola Mae (Nichols) Sears. He spent his life rooted in southern Illinois, where he built a life centered on family, hard work, and simple joys. Ronnie was a dedicated worker, spending 24 years at World Color Press before retiring from Gilster-Mary Lee. He enjoyed gardening, yard work, hunting, fishing, and attending his grandchildren's sporting events. Ronnie attended Trinity United Methodist Church and will be remembered for his love of family, steady presence, and the joy he found in life's everyday moments.

  • Ronnie Sears was born on December 26, 1948.
  • Ronnie passed away peacefully at his home on March 19, 2026.
  • Ronnie married Christine (Bredar) Sears on December 27, 2002.

The players

Ronald 'Ronnie' J. Sears

A 77-year-old longtime resident of Salem, Illinois, who passed away peacefully at his home. Ronnie was born in Centralia, Illinois, and spent his life rooted in southern Illinois, where he built a life centered on family, hard work, and simple joys.

Christine Sears

Ronnie's wife, whom he married on December 27, 2002, and with whom he shared many happy years filled with love, laughter, and family.

Robert Gene Sears

Ronnie's father.

Viola Mae (Nichols) Sears

Ronnie's mother.

Trinity United Methodist Church

The church where Ronnie attended and found fellowship and community.

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What’s next

A memorial service for Ronnie Sears will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salem, Illinois. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the time of the service, and burial will follow at Paradise Cemetery in Salem.

The takeaway

Ronnie Sears' life story reflects the values and experiences of many longtime residents of southern Illinois, where close-knit communities, strong work ethics, and appreciation for the outdoors have been central to the regional culture for generations. His passing is a loss for the community he was a part of for over seven decades.