William \"Bill\" Russell

William L. ƒ?oBillƒ?? Russell Age: 83 years A resident of Simpson, IL. Passed away Saturday afternoon, December 8, 2007, at 4:05 PM at his home in Simpson, IL. Born: January 28, 1924 in Simpson, IL. He was the son of Joseph Russell and Pearl (Duncan) Russell. Bill was united in marriage to Shirley A. (Kerley) on January 26, 1946 in Pope County Illinois. She survives. Other survivors include: A Daughter ƒ?" Glenna M. Branscum, and her husband Clifford, of Simpson, IL; 2 Grandsons - Kevin Branscum, Kyle Branscum, and his wife Chrissy; 4 Great Grandchildren - Logan Branscum, Kylie Branscum, Parker Branscum and Makensey Branscum; A Sister ƒ?" Ruby Wheeler of Peoria, IL; Several Nieces & Nephews. In addition to his Parents, Bill was preceded in death by: 2 Brothers ƒ?" Roland Russell and Paul Russell 3 Sisters ƒ?" Helen Weekly, Rosalind Russell, & Lillian Phelps Bill was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in the Pacific Theater of operation during World War II. Bill was employed for many years as an automotive mechanic at Farris Motor Co. in Vienna, IL. Bill was a member of Gurney Masonic Lodge # 778 AF&AM at Simpson, IL. Additionally, Bill was an honorary member of several lodges throughout Southern Illinois. He enjoyed attending lodge and was a very active member of the Masonic fraternity until failing health prevented him from participating. For many years, Bill served as the District Deputy Grand Master of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the 20th Southern District of the State of Illinois. Bill was the current Board President of the Village of Simpson, IL., a position which he had held for many years. Bill was of the Protestant faith. Bill enjoyed spending time with his family & many friends. He also enjoyed taking care of ƒ?oCrystalƒ??, a horse which belonged to both Bill and his grandson, Kevin. A Memorial Service will be conducted at 7 PM Wednesday, December 12, 2007, at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Rev. David Faulkner will officiate. A military flag presentation ceremony will be conducted by the Beggs-Gurley VFW 5222. The family will receive friends from 5 PM ƒ?" 7 PM Wednesday at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimerƒ?Ts Disease Association, Greater Illinois Chapter, 402 E. Plaza Drive, Suite 4, Carterville, IL 62918.

William \"Bill\" Russell

January 28, 1924 - December 8, 2007