Willie Junior Duckworth

Willie Junior Duckworth, 71, of Danville, IL passed this life on Wednesday, March 8, 2023.

Willie, the son of U.M. and Adline Duck(s)worth, was born September 9, 1951 in Bay Springs, Mississippi.  As Willie was being raised by his parents, he enjoyed the close knit ties of his siblings and friends; he continued to share a strong sibling bound throughout his lifetime.  Willie had worked for Mervis (in his younger years) and in his latter years he drove for Danville Mass Transit (DMT). When Willie was younger, him and one of his brothers (Charlie) teamed together to open Club 16.   Willie was very passionate about baseball and football.  He coached baseball and football.  He was a Chicago Bulls and Chicago Bears fan.  Willie loved to cook and bar-b-q.  Most of all, Willie loved to laugh, make jokes, and entertain.  He loved listening to Blues’ music.  He also loved to fish.  Willie found no greater fulfillment than spending time with family and friends and telling jokes—He loved to be around family and he loved his family being around.  There was never a dull moment in the Duckworth house. 

Willie leaves to cherish his memory and legacy to his wife—Brenda Duckworth of Atlanta Georgia, his beloved children—Yolanda, Willie Jr., Ryan and JayveanDuckworth all of Danville; his very loving extended children Brandon Alexander of Champaign and Edward and Demario King of Atlanta Georgia; 20 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Bobby Patterson and Anna Gunn of Champaign; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  

A visitation will be held on from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm Tuesday March 14, 2023 at Leek & Sons Funeral Home 304 E. Williams St, Danville. Burial will follow after at Sanhill Memorial Park.

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