Bill E. Turner was born on December 2, 1937 in Argenta, Illinois and passed away in his home in Maroa, Illinois on August 2, 2017. His parents James “Shake” Turner and Thelma Turner were farmers though he did not continue in that tradition and instead forged new paths. He enjoyed his time at Argenta High School serving in leadership roles and developing a passion for singing. He enlisted in the Army from 1960-1964. His professional career lasted over 40 years at Illinois Power Company with Bill retiring as Director of Computer Operations.
Singing remained a passion throughout various points in his life including membership in the Greater Decatur Chorale, numerous church choirs, and many important events for family and friends. He loved to travel and explore the nooks and crannies of every location. Dedicated to Christ, Bill served his larger community with all of his heart including leadership in the Maroa Methodist Church, Optimist Club, Lion’s Club, the Maroa-Forsyth School Board, Board of Directors of CASA, and Board of the Maroa Library.
While Bill strived to serve others, his family was the foundation of his life. He enjoyed going to numerous sporting events and recitals of his grandchildren. His wife Brenda, who preceded him in death, made his life complete.
Surviving are his sister Mary (Jack) Dickey of Decatur; children Michael (Dawn) Turner of Forsyth; Bradley Turner of Bloomington; Anne (Jayson) Meyer of Columbia, Missouri; Desiree Sandfrey of San Diego, California; Kristi (Steve) Long of Webster Groves, Missouri; Jeff Stubblefield of Mt. Zion; Lisa (Art) Miller-Rich of Nashville, Tennessee; and Stacy (Chad) Benjamin of Bloomington; ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Preceding him in death were his father Shake, mother Thelma, wife Brenda and former spouse Betty.
Memorial visitation at Dawson & Wikoff North Chapel in Decatur on Tuesday, August 8 from 5:00-7:00 pm. Funeral service on Wednesday, August 9 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Macon County CASA.
