Reverend Dr. Roy Carl Backus

Age 76, passed away Saturday, January 24, 2026 at his residence.

Born December 29, 1949 in Strawn, TX, Roy was a proud Texas native and graduated from Arlington Highschool in ‘68. He continued his education at Howard Payne with a BA in Biblical Studies and afterwards moved to Chicago, IL, earning his Masters of Divinity from McCormick Theological Seminary and later his PhD from Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI. Roy served in every capacity throughout his ministries, from youth pastor to senior pastor, in congregations spanning several states across the country. He recently retired from the First Presbyterian Church in Morris, IL and served as a senior pastor to several other local churches before his passing.

Roy was an excellent musician who played saxophone in the U.S. Army band. He continued making music throughout his life. He played with the Joliet American Legion Band, various jazz ensembles, and in churches, where music became an important part of his ministry. Roy was a lifelong learner and avid reader, eager to pick up new instruments—most recently the flute, explore new ideas, and share what he had learned. He loved traveling—especially by car—and enjoyed many long drives with family and friends. A gifted baker with community at heart, he baked many a pie for community members and friends, for their birthdays, anniversaries, and just for breakfast. He took particular joy in the day before Thanksgiving, (humorously named Pie Day) where his enthusiasm often resulted in more pies than guests. He took tremendous pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren.

In his life and ministry, he brought together intellect and a warm, attentive presence, engaging people of every belief and background with humor, humility, and genuine respect. Above all, he sought to be a faithful servant of Jesus Christ. He acknowledged that apart from the cross of Christ we can do nothing, but that there is great reward in abiding in Him.

As Roy would say, Grace and Peace.

Survivors include his wife, Ann Backus, (6) children: Havalah Grace (Matthew) Teaman, Maharah Joy (Adam) Jones, Shalanah (Grant) Dawson, Yatashah Hope Backus, Quinn Grace Backus and Eros Carl Backus, (6) grandchildren: Anavah (Jacob) Foss, Asher, Tovah, Talyah, Abel Jones and Tennessee Grace Teaman; (2) sisters Joyce Bogle & Jan (Mark) Graham; and many nieces and nephews.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Aaron Backus; and his siblings: Kenneth Backus & JoAnn Wright.

The family will receive friends at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1015 Winthrop Avenue, in Joliet on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor John Rickard and Reverend Michael Dwyer officiating.

Cremation rites will be accorded following the services, and a private interment with Full Military Honors will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Roy's memory to Blackhawk Presbytery’s “New Pastors Fund” which can be found at https://blackhawkpresbytery.org/ by clicking the heart “donate” at the top right-hand corner of the page and choosing “New Pastors Fund” from the drop down menu.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Roy’s memorial page on social media.

Cremation and memorial services have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-942-0700)