Robert A. Haley

Robert Ancel Haley, a devoted educator, steadfast democratic socialist, and lifelong student of Scripture, passed away on March 2, 2026, at Accolade Healthcare in Savoy, Illinois. He was 81 years old.

Born on February 16, 1945, in St. Joseph, Missouri, Robert was the son of Shelby Ancel Haley and Hettie Curry Haley. From an early age, he carried a deep curiosity about the world and a strong moral compass—qualities that guided him throughout his life.

Robert pursued his passion for understanding people, politics, and faith through higher education. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Government from Southern Illinois University in 1969, grounding his lifelong commitment to democratic socialism and the principle he cherished most: Me is We. Later, he deepened his spiritual studies by completing a Master of Arts in Religion from Urbana Theological Seminary in 2010, a reflection of his enduring devotion to the teachings of the Bible.

A lifetime educator in both formal and informal ways, Robert spent the majority of his professional career with the Illinois Secretary of State as a Drivers License Examiner. Over the course of his tenure, he administered more than 17,000 driving tests. He approached each one with fairness, and a genuine desire to help people succeed.

Robert was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Mahomet, where he found fellowship, purpose, and a community that shared his commitment to service and faith.

Beyond his work and studies, Robert found joy (usually!) in cheering for his favorite Wisconsin sports teams—most especially, the Green Bay Packers. Whether celebrating a big win or analyzing the season ahead, he embraced the camaraderie and spirit of the game with enthusiasm.  He was also an avid reader and kept a log of every book he read since 1976, ending with book number 676, “The 13th Directorate”, on December 20, 2025.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Shelby Ancel Haley and Hettie Curry Haley, his in-laws, John and Alberta Sobeckand by his beloved Golden Retriever, Rosco, his loyal companion and friend.

Robert is survived by his wife of 58 years, Sue Ellen (Sobeck) Haley, his fiercest protector and greatest champion. He also leaves behind his daughter Alicia and his son Colin, who carry forward his humor, his convictions, and his unwavering belief in the goodness of people.

Robert’s life was one of service, conviction, and quiet generosity. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the family who loved him deeply.

Visitation will be held at 11am on Friday, March 13 with funeral services following at noon at the First Baptist Church of Mahomet, 402 S. Elm Street. Burial will take place at noon on Monday, March 16 at Mt. Etna Methodist Church Cemetery. 

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