Long-Haul Trucker Bill Phillips Dies at 91

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Donald William 'Bill' Phillips, a long-haul trucker and Illinois resident, passed away on February 9, 2025, at the age of 91. Born in 1934 in Mount Sterling, Illinois, Phillips spent his career driving for various trucking companies before retiring and working at Farm King in Burlington for 15 more years. He was an active member of the Burlington Eagles Lodge and Moose Lodge, and enjoyed hobbies like fishing, boating, and yard work. Phillips is survived by his wife Theo, three daughters, two sons, 18 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 16 great-great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Bill Phillips' life and career as a long-haul trucker and community member in Illinois over nearly a century represents the story of many Americans who built fulfilling lives through hard work, family, and civic engagement. His extensive family legacy, spanning multiple generations, highlights the profound impact one person can have through their relationships and contributions to their local community.

The details

Born in 1934 in Mount Sterling, Illinois, Bill Phillips graduated from Stronghurst High School in 1954 and soon began a long career as an over-the-road truck driver. He worked for companies like Truck Transport Company, Stronghurst Grain & Merchandise, and Nortrup Petroleum before retiring and spending 15 more years working at Farm King in Burlington. Phillips was an active member of the Burlington Eagles Lodge and Moose Lodge, and enjoyed hobbies like fishing, boating, and yard work in his free time.

• Bill Phillips was born on July 24, 1934.
• He graduated from Stronghurst High School in 1954.
• Phillips married Theo Brewer on July 31, 1954.
• He passed away on February 9, 2025, at the age of 91.