Rev. Robert Edward Costic

Rev. Robert Edward Costic, 77, of Peoria, IL, departed this life on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 5:33 PM at his home, surrounded by his loving wife, sons, and family members as he entered his heavenly home. Robert was born on January 20, 1947, to Henry L. and Mary Jane (Costic) Welch and was raised by his grandmother, Annie McDonald. He married the love of his life, Irma Spotts, on September 27, 1975. Robert leaves behind cherished memories with his wife of 49 years, Irma Costic; two sons, Jason and Jerame Costic; two extended sons, Shane (Shielondria) Parker and Mike (Jennifer) Albert; two brothers, Jerome (Lynne) Costic and Michael Welch; three sisters, Jacqueline McKinley and Joann Coats, all of Peoria, IL, and Bernice Anderson of Forney, TX; sister-in-law, Barbara Cagle-Welch of Peoria, IL; foster sisters Denise Vachonn (Fred) Davison of Belleville, IL, and Sandy Houston of Denver, CO; and special nephew Anthony Washington of California. Robert graduated in 1965 from Manual High School. After graduation, he was drafted into the United States Army, serving two years and receiving an Honorable Discharge. He attended Midstate College, earning an Associate's degree in Business Administration, and then went on to attend Bradley University, completing courses in Sales and Marketing. Although he held various positions, he was most proud of his employment with the Peoria Housing Authority, where he worked for over 24 years. He began his career as an Occupancy Specialist and advanced to the position of Property Specialist retiring in 2005. Robert was a great man of faith, a leader, an exemplary teacher, and a man of many talents. He was ordained as a deacon under the late Rev. Calvin Hightower of Morning Star Church. Robert had a passion for working with the young people of Morning Star. He will always be remembered as “Uncle Robert.” Robert was instrumental in aiding Pastor R.W. Randle in establishing Higher Dimension Praise & Worship Church, where he was also a chartered member. After the death of Pastor Randle, Robert served on the committee to search for a new pastor to lead the church. Robert was ordained as a minister under the late Pastor R.W. Randle in 2008. His ministry was evangelism; he loved teaching and preaching the Word of God. Robert was never shy in proclaiming his love of the Lord, and if you did not know Jesus for yourself, he would tell you about the goodness of being a child of God and let you know what you needed to do to be saved. Throughout the years, Robert was a dedicated Sunday School teacher and taught classes at the Central District Congress. He cared about people and was passionate about wanting to help make a difference in lives. Robert was the proud playwright and producer of the religious play "Don't Let It Be Said Too Late." Robert was involved in the Prison Ministry and was dedicated to reaching out to those incarcerated. He wanted them to know they were not forgotten and sought to encourage them through letters. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Mary Jane Welch; grandparents Annie McDonald and LaGrande (Odie) Welch; brothers George A. Welch and Henry (Sonny) Welch Jr.; sister Eddie Mae Harris; brother-in-law James Coats; foster brothers Aaron Houston and Wilbur Smith; and foster sister Charlotte Houston. Robert loved his wife, sons, and his family. He will be missed. Funeral services will be held at 12 Noon on Friday, December 20, 2024 at Prince of Peace MB Church with a visitation one-hour prior beginning at 11 am. The host Pastor is Rev. Simons Holly, Jr. The Officiant will be Rev. Harold Webster of Higher Dimensions Praise and Worship Church. Robert will be laid to rest at Lutheran Cemetery with full US Army Military Honors. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at SimonsMortuary.com. “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge shall give me on that day.” 2 Timothy 4:13

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Rev. Robert Edward Costic

January 20, 1947 - December 13, 2024