Bobbie Ray Self, 78, of Collinsville, IL, passed away at his residence on July 9th, 2026. He was born on May 25th, 1948, in East St. Louis, IL, to parents Bob and Geraldine Self. 

Bobbie was a well-loved individual who loved being surrounded by his family and friends. If the weather was nice, he could be found sitting out in his grill center, or going fishing with his grandson, brother, and nephews. If he wasn't outside, he could be found watching a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game, listening to some of his favorite country music, reading books by his favorite authors, or even writing his own. Bobbie was a proud local author, having nine books under his publication belt with one more that he was working on. Even though he didn't get a chance to finish that last book, he still managed to show everyone in his life that it is never too late to go after your dreams. Writing was a lifelong passion of his, but he didn't publish his first book until he was in his 70s. 

At one point in time, Bobbie was a boxing coach for his daughter and many of the neighborhood kids. For several years, the local kids could count on him to show them how to throw a mean right hook. While he had a background in lumber and sales, he most recently worked at Hallcon for three days out of the week, driving the railroad guys. 

Preceding Bobbie in death are his parents; older brother, Melvin George Koenig; sister, Lorraine Faye Russell; and sister, Bonnie Sue Haller.

Surviving are his loving wife, Karen Self nee Prather; daughter, Autumn McArthur nee Self and significant other, Tim Hart, Jr.; grandchild, Dakota Ray McArthur and significant other, Aimee Speck; siblings, Marilyn (Arthur) Potter, Edward G. (JoAnn) Self, Patricia (Scott) Slayton, Connie Rae (Larry) Bilau; sisters-in-law, Patricia Crum and Karla Dalton; brother-in-law and good friend, Michael Reichert and significant other, Jamie Delisle; former son-in-law and friend, Kevin E. McArthur; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be planned for a later date. Please check back for updates.

The family is being served by Herr Funeral Home, 501 W. Main Street, Collinsville, IL, 62234.