It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Royal J Hinds of Springfield, Illinois, who passed away on July 14, 2025, at the age of 85, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
In the soft embrace of remembrance, we recall the profound impact Royal J had on those he encountered along his journey. Though Royal J may have slipped beyond the veil of mortality, his essence lingers like a faint fragrance in the air, a lingering reminder of the beauty and complexity of the human experience.
He was predeceased by: his parents, Royal Renz and Madge Americus Hinds (Traylor); and his wife Nancy Elaine Balster. He is survived by: his daughters, Glenda Pedraza (Frank) of Springfield and Royale Anne Hinds of Springfield; his grandchildren, Alexander Pedraza (Lindsey) of Punta Gorda, FL, Andrew Pedraza (Tania) of Springfield and Teagan Hinds of Springfield; his great grandchild Parker Pedraza of Punta Gorda, FL; and his brother Daniel Hinds (Sara) of El Paso, IL. He is also survived by niece, several nephews, and many cousins.
The family requests that those who wish may direct memorial contributions to Roy's beloved Public Broadcasting Service (PBS-WILL), Campbell Hall, 300 N. Goodwin, Urbana, IL 61801 or by visiting PBS.org.