Robert Patrick Hennessey, born on March 12, 1941, in Granite City, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at home with his family by his side. He was the youngest son of the late Milford and Emaline (Willig) Hennessey.
Bob attended Sacred Heart Catholic School and graduated from Granite City High School in 1959. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 1965 and his Juris Doctor degree from Saint Louis University School of Law in 1968.
Following law school, Bob joined the law office of William Schooley as an associate in 1968. In 1971, he became a partner in the firm, which later became Schooley, Hennessey & Hartman. In 1973, he entered private practice and continued until 1988, when he was appointed Associate Circuit Judge of Madison County. During his years in private practice, he served as Assistant Village Attorney for the Village of Pontoon Beach, Assistant City Attorney for the City of Granite City, Assistant Attorney for the Metro East Sanitary District, and Assistant State’s Attorney for Madison County. He retired from the bench in 2001.
Bob was a former member of the American Bar Association, Illinois State Bar Association, and Illinois Judges Association.
A true gambler at heart, Bob was an avid golfer and a devoted fan of horse racing, football, casinos, and any activity that involved a friendly wager. During the 1970s and early 1980s, he was part-owner of two racehorses, Fillmore and Executive Issue. He was always ready for a game of poker, pinochle, cribbage, or chess. He also enjoyed traveling to Phoenix with his wife to visit close friends, Tom and Diana. Above all, Bob cherished Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations and spending time with his family throughout the year.
He was a Third Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus in Granite City and was also a member of the AMVETS in Madison and the Moose Lodge in Litchfield, Illinois.
Bob was a caring and generous man who was always willing to help family and friends. An avid lover and protector of animals, he was a proud supporter of the ASPCA.
He married his friend and soulmate, Sue (Cartwright) Laswell, on December 11, 2004, at their home, and she survives.
Also surviving are his beloved children, Rob (Jen Reeves) Laswell and Shelly Laswell Work; his cherished grandchildren, Colton Robert Wayne Work and Nicolette Druanne Work; his beloved fur babies, George, Gracie, Zoey, and Inky; nephews Tom Burns and Todd Burns; as well as many other nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, professional bowler Tom Hennessey; his sisters, June Painter-Idoux, Rita “Snook” Hennessey, and Norma Burns; and his nephews, Tim Burns and Mike Painter.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Harmon, Dr. Parres, Hospice of Southern Illinois, Visiting Angels, and especially Kim Barth and the many members of a wonderful support group who cared for Bob with compassion and love.
In celebration of his life, visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City, on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Family Catholic Church, 2606 Washington Avenue in Granite City, at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 30, 2026, with Father Steve Thompson officiating.
In lieu of floral tributes, memorial donations may be made to the ASPCA, any no-kill animal shelter, or Tunnel to Towers in Bob’s memory.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.
