Boyd Christy

Boyd K. Christy, 77, of Peoria, IL, passed away at 11:38 pm on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at his residence surrounded by his family.

He was born on September 11, 1946, in Kirksville, MO, the son of Boyd and Jeanetta Hogue Christy. He married Sarah A. Herrick on October 9, 1965, in Farmington, IL.

Surviving are his wife and four children: Molly Christy, Melissa (Chris) Ashby, David Christy, all of Peoria, and Geoffrey Christy. Also surviving are five grandchildren, Byron, Kelsey, Christopher, Frances, and Alexis, along with two great-grandchildren, Rosalyn Grace (Rosie) and Avonni Danae. Further surviving is a brother, Edward (Glenda) Christy, of Rockville, IN. His parents and two sons, Boyd Dale Christy and Rod William Christy, preceded him in death.

He served in the Army, fought in Vietnam, was wounded, and left with a permanent disability, which rarely stopped him from participating in life. He was employed by Caterpillar, Inc. for 38 years, last working in Human Resources, retiring in 2003. Boyd was happiest when serving others. He was a master of corny skits and had a passion for mentoring kids. Boyd and his wife created a camp for children with cystic fibrosis in memory of their son, Rod, which led to the creation of Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp, a division of United Stroke Alliance. He was active in numerous ministries through his church, was a Stephen Minister, and was part of the No Greater Love Ministry.

Cremation Rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Boyd's life will be 11:00 am on Monday, July 8, 2024, at First United Methodist Church, 116 N.E. Peoria, IL. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until 11:00 am. Military Honors will be accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Greater Illinois Chapter, https://www.cff.org/chapters/greater-illinois-chapter . Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services of Central Illinois, Peoria, has been entrusted with arrangements.