Bobby Joe Smith II

Bobby Joe Smith II, affectionately known to his family as Bubbs, was a bright and gifted 15-year-old from Wilmington, Illinois. Born on February 28, 2011, in Kankakee, Illinois, he was the son of Carrie Widlacki and Bobby Smith. A freshman at Wilmington High School, Bobby excelled academically and was a consistent honor roll student. He was an active member of the Chess Club and Math Club, and he proudly contributed to the Math Team that placed third in the state competition. He was also a valued member of Ignite Christian Church in Braidwood, where he participated in the youth group.

Bobby possessed a creative and inquisitive mind. He was particularly skilled at building with Legos and solving puzzles, and he found joy in video games, especially those featuring Sonic the Hedgehog. He was also a fan of Beyblades and anything related to Spider-Man. Over the years he played soccer, enjoyed badminton, and spent time at the bowling alley. With his strong problem-solving abilities and sharp wit tempered by a healthy dose of sarcasm, Bobby aspired to become a Crime Scene Investigator.

He is survived by his parents, Carrie (Duane) Widlacki of Oak Lawn and Bobby (Mel) Smith of Wilmington; his brothers, Lukas Billett and Allen Michael Peace; his great-grandmother, Joan Widlacki of Crestwood; his grandparents, Bill (Annette) Widlacki of Alsip and Lewis Willard Smith of Plant City, Florida; his aunts and uncles, Tanya Anne Shroyer, Jenny (Josh) LaGrange, Billy (Susie) Widlacki, Kelly (Ian) Issert, and Marissa Osborne; and his cousins, Lewis, Jaidyn, Jasmyn, Ally, Lilly, Sammy, Ian, Ryker, and Rowan.

Bobby was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, William Widlacki and Betty Milton; his grandmother, Doris Maine; and his Nana, Cheri Widlacki. He will be deeply missed by his loving family, who will carry him in their hearts always.