Brent W. Leary

Brent W. Leary departed this world on June 19, 2026, in Oregon, just a day after celebrating his 64th birthday. He was born in Waukegan, IL on June 18, 1962. Brent grew up in Byron the son of Stewart “Richard” and Barbara (Spencer) Leary. He graduated from Byron High School Class of 1980. He then had a fulfilling career working as a custodian for the Byron School District for 31 years. Brent was a true nature lover at his core. He found solace and inspiration in the outdoors. He was passionate about learning about the weather conditions and he loved to trap, hunt, and fish, often spending hours on quiet banks and wooded trails, patiently waiting and watching. He enjoyed investing in his hobbies and aspired to be the best trapper he could be. Brent owned property in Wisconsin where he loved spending time outside and hosting friends for fishing trips a few times a year. He also enjoyed classic firearms. When Brent was not outside enjoying nature he could be found losing himself in a book as he was a prolific reader with an incredible home library. He was also a man of a strong faith and was a member of the Mt Morris Evangelical Free Church. He is preceded in death by his father. He is survived and missed by his mother, Barb Leary of Byron; brother, Doug (Marla) Leary of Mesa, AZ; nephews, Stewart (Crystal) Leary and Matt (Jessica) Leary; great nieces and nephews, Ashlyn, Reid, Willow, and Hudson; and many other family and friends. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris.