Kem Leroy Moore

Kem Leroy Moore, 72, of Yates City, passed away Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Sarah D. Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville.

He was born October 4, 1953, in Beardstown, the son of Marvin Congdon and Betty J. Moore. He married Marlene Waddell on June 2, 1973, in Rushville, and she survives in Yates City. Kem was proud to have shared 52 years of marriage with Marlene.

He is also survived by his daughter, Janet Lara (husband Jose) of Springfield; and two sons, Brian Moore (wife Jennifer) of Jacksonville and John Moore (wife Amy) of Springfield; along with extended family members. He was preceded in death by his biological father, Marvin Congdon; his mother, Betty J. Moore, and her companion, Edward "Jack" Strong, who was known to him as Dad; and his maternal grandparents, Russell and Ruby Pearl Moore, who helped raise him. He was also preceded in death by his beloved rescued dog, Sandy.

Kem attended Brown County Schools through his junior year and graduated from Rushville High School in the Class of 1971, attending his senior year there after a change of address-a path that ultimately led him to meeting his future wife, Marlene. He began working during high school at local grocery stores in Rushville and later at the Sunoco Gas Station in Beardstown. Kem went on to work at Keystone Steel beginning in 1973, where he remained until his retirement in 2009. In addition to his career, he proudly served the Yates City community as a part-time police officer and volunteer firefighter. He also spent many years working as a farmhand.

Kem was baptized at Ripley Christian Church at a young age. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, birdwatching-especially purple martins-and camping, and had a strong interest in firearms. He also cherished monthly gatherings and frequent coffee visits with his Keystone Steel retiree friends. Known for his quick wit and great sense of humor, Kem brought laughter to those around him and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held at 12:30 PM, Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown. The family will meet with friends from 11:00 AM until the time of services at the memorial home on Saturday. Cremation rites have been accorded, and there will be no burial at this time.

Memorials have been suggested to Illinois Cancer Center in Peoria, BYE Ambulance, or Schuyler County EMS. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.