Ronald “Ronnie” Horner

Robert Alvin Dwight Hubbard, 82, of Carthage, IL, passed away in the early hours on Friday, April 3, 2026, at his home in Carthage.

Robert was born on October 12, 1943, in Macomb, Illinois. He was the son of Dwight Hubbard and Suella June Sparkman (Carr).

Robert lived a life defined by service, dedication, and love for family and country. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for over 21 years, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant on June 30, 1984. A Vietnam War veteran, he also completed tours in Korea and Thailand. During his distinguished military career, he served as Commander of the NCO Academy and Officer Training programs in Ramstein, Germany. While stationed overseas, he embraced European culture—participating in trap and skeet shooting, joining Volksmarches through the countryside, and traveling extensively as a passionate student of World War II history.

Following his military retirement, he continued his commitment to excellence as a Quality Control Manager at Methode Electronics from 1984 until 2005. On June 10, 1963, Robert was united in marriage to Donna Duffy in Carthage, Illinois. His dedication to service extended well into civilian life. He was instrumental in establishing the Veterans Assistance Commission (VAC) Office for Hancock County, providing vital support to fellow veterans. He also served as Commander of Carthage VFW Post #5117 and held leadership roles within the American Legion, where he remained a respected and active member of the veteran community.

Outside of his service, he found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He had a deep love for motorcycles, NASCAR racing, and vintage Ford Mustangs. He enjoyed music from the 1950s and 1960s and treasured the companionship of his beloved dog, Gracie, who will miss him dearly.

He is survived by his loving wife, Donna Hubbard; his children: Kimberly (Dan) Head, Kelly (Michael) Everett, and Jose (Lynn) Gonzalez. He was a proud grandfather to Katherine (Mike) Jones, Creston (Ali) Lambert, Zachary (Vicki) Lambert, Michelle (Brian) Campbell, Michael (Meleiah) Gonzalez, Megan Gonzalez, Shyann (Marshall) Stephen, and Tori (Dakota) Renfroe, a beloved great-grandfather to 19 great-grandchildren, and his siblings, Frank (Teri) Sparkman; and his sister, Jeri (Tom) Boos.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Shawn Sparkman, Shane Sparkman, and David Sparkman, and his sister Winona “Cookie” Sparkman.

A memorial service will be held at 11am on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage. A visitation will be held prior to the service starting at 10am. Memorials may be made out to H.U.G.S of Hancock County. Printy Funeral Home is handling arrangements.