William “Bill” L. Bradley, age 64, of Xenia, Illinois passed away Sunday, January 21, 2018, at his home.

     He was born June 8, 1953, in Centralia, to Cecil LeRoy and Beulah I. (Blurton) Bradley. 

     With a kind nature and good sense of humor, Bill generously gave his time in a variety of ways to help others through his volunteer commitments, and he recently even carried a few U.S. flags around so that he could offer to replace one that was faded or torn.  No one was better at expressing patriotism better than Bill when it came to his pride for country and the community he lived in, but his heart was truly held in the hands of his family, especially the grandkids, who brought him so much happiness.

     Bill was a veteran of the U.S. Army.  He was interested in becoming a volunteer fireman and first responder early in life, first serving in Salem and later in Xenia, spending time as Captain at one time prior to his retirement.  He also served on the Xenia Village Board.  During his working career he was employed at World Color Press and the Wal-Mart Distribution Center.  Bill was a member of the American Legion, Sons of VFW, Flatlanders Social Club, Whitetails Unlimited, and was active in the Flora High School All 70’s Reunion Committee.  He had been an avid fisherman and hunter, and was known for making some of the best-tasting jerky and other treats.

     Bill is survived by 3 daughters:  Michelle Leonard (Jim) of Jasonville, Indiana, Jennifer Ducote of Xenia, and Melissa Kelm of Olney; 5 grandchildren: Jacob Leonard, Katlyn Ducote, Kristine Ducote, Athena Fulk, and Coral Bradley, and many others who knew Bill as their “Grandpa”; 2 sisters: Lela Cooley of Effingham and Dorothy Willis (Herschel) of Farina; a special friend: Loretta Bradley of Salem; and many nieces and nephews.  Bill was elated knowing that his first great-grandchild, a boy, is expected to be born in February.  He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother: Donald Dean Snack; and 2 sisters: Ella Park and Beulah Faye Schlauser.

     Bill’s family is honoring his request that no services be held.  To remember Bill, they suggest you please consider a memorial donation to either the local chapter of Disabled American Veterans, or the American Red Cross, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  Arrangements by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.