Eric Gene Kaylor, 73, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2024 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was born on October 24, 1950 in Springfield, Illinois to Marjorie (Siders) and Virgil Kayor.

Eric graduated from Lakeview High School and Millikin University. He worked thirty-two years for United Parcel Service, where for several years he traveled the Pacific Rim setting up UPS in the region. After retiring from UPS, Eric went to work at the Walmart Stores in Decatur, IL and Los Lunas, NM.

Eric loved playing sports even though he broke his leg playing football in high school (It bothered him the rest of his life) and his neck playing softball. He enjoyed watching and coaching his sons at baseball, soccer, and wrestling. He also loved music (his knowledge was amazing) and cars (he could identify them, make, model and year). I, on the other hand, had to ask, "What color is it?" when he would say, "Look at that whatever!

Eric had three sons with his first (and second!) wife, Susan (Chapple). In 2000, he reconnected with his childhood sweetheart, Buena Kay Hall, whom he married in 2002 (finally!)

Eric leaves behind his sons, Kyle (Tiffany) and Logan (Jasmine), both of Decatur. He also leaves his loving siblings, Bruce (Rhonda), Bobbi Marie (Frank) Bell, Mark (Karen), all of Decatur and Kathy (Chris) Barteck, of Cerro Gordo; beloved grandchildren, Kyly, Malachi, Amery, Colton, Kaylyn, Darrin, Leandra, Jaelin, and Leah; great-grandchildren, Kairee and Elaya and many nieces and nephews.

Eric's eldest son, Damin, and both of his parents preceded him in death.

Buena and family plan to hold a memorial service and celebration of Eric's life later in the summer.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, American Lung Association, The American Kidney Fund, the American Stroke Association, and/or any  Anti-Smoking Organization such as 1-800-Quit-Now. All of these ailments contributed to Eric's decline and demise.  Eric didn't quit smoking until it was too late.  Hopefully, it isn't too late for other smokers who read this.