SR1237 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR1237 LRB103 42803 LAW 76051 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Philip L. "Phil" Theobald, who passed away on October 4, 2024; and

WHEREAS, Phil Theobald, the son of Philip C. and Marilee Ayres Theobald, was born in Galesburg on January 3, 1941; he graduated from Galesburg High School in 1959; he served in and was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army; he married Sandra Lind in Oneida on May 31, 1990; and

WHEREAS, Phil Theobald was a respected sports journalist with a career spanning more than 40 years, making a name for himself as the preeminent sports columnist for the Peoria Journal Star; he began his career in journalism with the Galesburg Register-Mail before moving to the Canton Daily Ledger; he joined the Peoria Journal Star as a sportswriter in 1965, where he rose through the ranks to become the sports columnist and assistant sports editor, positions he held with distinction until his retirement in 2004; during his tenure, he became known for his insightful coverage and unwavering integrity while earning a reputation as the beat writer for the Chicago Bears, the Peoria Chiefs, and the Bradley Braves; and

WHEREAS, Phil Theobald was an enthusiastic sportsman, a lifelong angler, and an avid card player with a particular fondness for gin rummy; he also enjoyed golfing, celebrating a memorable hole-in-one at Mt. Hawley Country Club; he especially cherished cheering for his grandchildren at their sporting events; and

WHEREAS, Phil Theobald was respected by colleagues for his professionalism and mentorship, and his family and friends will especially remember his infectious laughter, his storytelling prowess, and the warmth of his companionship; and

WHEREAS, Phil Theobald was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Ronald Theobald; and his brothers-in-law, Jim Isaacson and Dan Dalton; and

WHEREAS, Phil Theobald is survived by his wife; his daughters, Erin (Kevin) Berry and Andra (Jason) Chamberlin; his stepdaughter, Susan Stairwalt; his grandchildren, Shaun (Grant) Shepard, Riley Devlin, Jace (Kenzie) Chamberlin, and Alexandra Chamberlin; his step-grandchildren, Anthony Francis and Rhonnie (Ryan) Storesina; his great-granddaughter, Thea Shepard, with one more on the way; his brothers, Gary (Jean) Theobald and Ed (Cathy) Theobald; his sisters, Pat Isaacson and Jane Young; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many cousins; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Philip L. "Phil" Theobald and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Phil Theobald as an expression of our deepest sympathy.