Brian Bounds Fairbury IL Obituary – The community of Fairbury, Illinois, mourns the loss of a beloved son, father, husband, and farmer, Brian Thomas Bounds, who peacefully passed away on Saturday, May 31st, 2025, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Born in the heart of Fairbury on April 14th, 1965, Brian’s life was characterized by dedication, passion for agriculture, and a deep love for his family and friends. His passing leaves a void in the lives of many, but his legacy of kindness, resilience, and love for life will continue to inspire.
Brian was the son of Thomas L. and Jane Rieger Bounds, and he was a proud fifth-generation farmer. Growing up in a farming family, he developed a profound respect for the land and the hard work it requires. He graduated from Forrest-Strawn-Wing High School in 1983, and later, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Economics from the University of Illinois in 1987. His educational background laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to farming and agriculture, which he pursued with passion and dedication.
In 1991, Brian married Rebecca Weber, a union that exemplified partnership and shared values. Rebecca survives him in Fairbury, along with their children—Trent (Kylie) Bounds of Fairbury, Addison (Chloe) Bounds of Denver, Colorado, and Maddie Bounds of Nashville, Tennessee. His four grandchildren, Trip, Vivienne, Beau, and Callahan Bounds, brought him immense joy and were the light of his life.
Brian’s love for the outdoors was evident in his avid fishing pursuits. He cherished fishing trips to Canada with close friends and his sons, where he found peace and camaraderie amidst nature. His family recalls him spending leisurely days by the pool, floating with a Hefeweizen in hand, enjoying simple pleasures that brought him happiness and relaxation.
His dedication extended beyond his personal interests—farming was both his livelihood and his heritage. Starting his farming career in 1991 as a District Sales Manager for Agrigold Seed, Brian balanced his professional responsibilities with his part-time work on the family farm. In 1996, he transitioned to full-time farming alongside his father, Tom, continuing the family legacy and contributing to the local agricultural community.
A private family gathering is scheduled at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home in Fairbury on Saturday, June 7th, 2025, where loved ones will share memories and celebrate Brian’s life. To honor his memory publicly, a Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 to 5:00 pm on Sunday, June 8th, 2025, at Emancipation Brewing Company, located at 13113 North 2500 East Road in Fairbury. The family encourages memorial donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the American Cancer Society, reflecting Brian’s compassionate spirit and wish to help others facing health battles.
Brian Bounds was a man who embodied the virtues of hard work, family devotion, and a zest for life. His impact on those around him—whether through his farm, his family, or his friendships—remains deeply felt. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to work diligently, love fiercely, and cherish every moment.
As the community gathers to remember him, it is clear that Brian’s spirit lives on in the fields he loved, the family he adored, and the lives he touched. His memory will forever be a testament to a life well-lived, grounded in love, dedication, and a passion for life’s simple pleasures.
