William “Bill” Henry Atchison, age 81, of Louisville, Illinois, passed away early Sunday morning, December 22, 2019, at his home.

   He was born April 1, 1938, in Louisville, the son of Andy and Arline (Rockhold) Atchison.  He was united in marriage to Shirley K. Pickens on September 1, 1961, in Clay County and they have shared 58 wedding anniversaries together.

   Bill spent his entire life in Clay County.  He proudly served 2 years in the Army.  He was a member of the Louisville American Legion Post 914 and was honored to have helped many years with military services.  Bill had a love for the outdoors, was an avid hunter and fisherman, and enjoyed gardening.  He was North Clay School’s #1 sports fan, along with his brother Russ Atchison and Schuyler Wiley.  Bill was proud to have been named Louisville’s Citizen of the Year in 2017.  He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, and friend to all who knew him.

   He is survived by his wife: Shirley Atchison of Louisville; a daughter: Sheila Atchison of Louisville; a brother: Russell Atchison; and 4 sisters: Louise Moats, Ruth Ann Bissey, Susie Doyle, and Mary Ellison. 

   He was preceded in death by his parents and 3 brothers: Robert, Arnold, and Ray Atchison.

   A funeral service will be held at 12 noon, Thursday December 26, 2019, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Interment will follow in Orchard Hill Cemetery, Louisville.  Military Funeral Honors will be presented.  Visitation will be 10 a.m. until time of service on Thursday at the funeral home.  In honor of Bill’s love of hunting those attending the visitation or funeral are invited to wear camouflage clothing or attire.  Memorial donations are suggested to Louisville American Legion Post 914 and will be accepted through the funeral home.