Dr. John Squibb

He was born on November 26, 1942, in Seminole, OK, the son of John William and Venita Christine (Hamlin) Squibb. John married Mary Lou Rios on October 15, 1994, in Springfield, IL. She preceded him in death, on September 23, 2020.

John earned both his Bachelor of Arts degree and Master’s Degree in History and Political Science from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL, and his Ph.D. in American Constitutional History and Law from University of Wisconsin – Madison. He was a college professor from 1970-2007 at Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) and Sangamon State/University of Illinois – Springfield, teaching history and political science. After a brief hiatus, John returned to LLCC for an additional 12 years as an adjunct instructor, because of his love for teaching and the students.

During his time at LLCC, he served as Social Science Division Chairperson; joined the Teachers Union; worked for improved benefits, conditions, and pay; participated in professional growth and organizations in both history and political science by attending, giving papers, and serving on panels at meetings, conferences, and conventions; and taught thousands of students who have remained friends and acquaintances over time. John’s faculty colleagues made an indelible impression on him with their dedications, skills, talents, and commitment to higher education and learning.

John’s recognitions include: finalist on numerous occasions for the Drs. Raymond and Ann Pearson Master Teacher Award; Master Teacher Award in 2002, for inspiring students, providing outstanding leadership, and serving as a role model for students, faculty, and staff; Strathmore’s “Who’s Who Honors” Leadership award in 2007 and 2008; Western Illinois Most Inspirational Teacher Award in 2000; Outstanding Volunteer Service for Board of Directors by the Springfield Urban League in 1986; and the National Institute for Staff Organization and Development Teaching Excellence Award.

John attended Cherry Hills Baptist Church. He enjoyed visiting his family in Arizona for Spring training baseball games, watching Boston Red Sox baseball games, and the Wisconsin Badgers in basketball and football, and reading both fiction and nonfiction books. John derived pleasure from his many pets, most recent, his twin Yorkies, Tucker James and Ziva. Most of all, he missed simply hanging out with his beloved wife, Mary. Not only was John admired and recognized for his excellent teaching skills and classroom humor, he was most known for his famous phrase, “Hey babe”.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; and brother, William C. Squibb.

John is survived by his daughters, Tanum (Enrique) Smith of Goodyear, AZ and Tanya Smith of Chatham; son, Brad (Dawn) Squibb of Alpharetta, GA; grandchildren, Eric Smith of Ohio, Allison (Zeke) Rowe of New Berlin, IL, Connor (Abigail) Smith of Waddell, AZ, Jim Pounds of Arkansas, Royal Squibb of Georgia, Peytin Bryant of Illinois, and Alexis Bryant of Illinois; and great-grandchildren, Rylee Rowe and Wyola Wynn.

Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Lincoln Land Community College Foundation for scholarships, or the local Animal Protective League.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Chatham, 8855 State Route 4, Chatham.

Please visit www.butlerchatham.com to offer your condolences.