William Robertson, 78, of Danville Illinois, left this earthly plane unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at his home. William was born on March 24, 1943 in Marion, Arkansas to Nellie and Oscar Robertson. He entered holy matrimony with Annie Shannon on November 17, 1978.
He leaves behind his wife of over four decades to cherish their life together, Annie Robertson of Danville. He leaves his children, son, Jeff Beasley of Tampa, FL, daughter Emily (Howard) Boger of Tampa, FL, daughter Dionne (Troy) Webster of Urbana, IL, daughter Kelly (Howard) Bromwell of Westchester, IL, daughter Sylvia (Ricardo) Jean-Pierre of Mesa, AZ, and daughter Amber (Eddie) Rayborn of Gilbert, AZ to remember his witty sense of humor, honest conversations, and his singing. Two brothers, Robin (Margaret) Robertson of Memphis, TN,
Clarence (Ora) Robertson of West Memphis, AR, and one sister Evelyn (Johnny) Whetstone of Danville, are left with fond memories. “Papa” has nine grandchildren to continue his legacy, Tyl’r Beasley, Jeff Beasley, Jr., Alexandria Bromwell, Reese Rayborn, Genesis Jean-Pierre, Savannah Boger, Mya Rayborn, Gabrielle Jean-Pierre, and Isaiah Rayborn. A special great niece, Sharon Patterson, of Memphis TN and a slew of nieces, nephews, cousins, and a special niece, ReeAnn Ellison of Canal Winchester, OH. William was preceded in death by his grandparents, Nellie and Oscar Robertson (parents), three brothers (Oscar Robertson, Jr., Ruben Robinson, C.L. Robinson) and four sisters (Myrtle Patterson, Lucille King, Mattie Fletcher, and Jean Williams).
William graduated from Wonder High School in West Memphis, Arkansas before relocating to Danville, IL in 1964. He retired from General Motors in 1992 after 28 years of service. In his retirement, he provided childcare for his niece, ReeAnn Ellison. He loved sitting on the front porch, policing the neighborhood, singing “I want to go home,” and giving unsolicited advice. Even as he progressed through the stages of dementia, he maintained his sense of humor, directness in conversation, and singing with no words/humming.
There are no words to convey the loss and the hole that he leaves
behind, but his favorite quote of “I want to go home” will be missed.
His wish has been granted, he is home, with Jesus. As he used to say,
“Jesus is my only friend”.
A private family celebration will commence at 12:00 on Thursday April 29, 2021 at Leek & Sons Funeral Home, 304 E. Williams St., Danville. Eulogist : Pastor Steve Gilbert A Visitation will be held on Wednesday April 28, 2021 at Leek & Sons Funeral Home from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm.
Due to Covid 19 Restrictions will be enforced
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