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Monmouth Today
By the People, for the People
Beloved Monmouth Car Enthusiast Willie Weldon Jr. Dies at 61
Weldon was known for his passion for automobiles, Elvis impersonations, and bringing joy to his family and friends.
Apr. 2, 2026 at 12:14am
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Willie Weldon Jr., a 61-year-old resident of Monmouth, Illinois, passed away on March 30, 2026, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Weldon was a lifelong car enthusiast who spent over 20 years working as a car detailer at Tatman 1 Motors. He was also an avid NASCAR fan, a skilled Elvis impersonator, and cherished time with his family.
Why it matters
Weldon's passing marks the loss of a beloved community member who embodied Monmouth's small-town spirit and passion for classic cars. His dedication to his work, hobbies, and loved ones made him a fixture in the local area.
The details
Weldon was born in 1964 in Arkansas and was raised in Missouri and Illinois. He married Cherrie Hawk in 1997 and spent many years working alongside his father as a farmhand before finding his calling as a car detailer. Weldon took great pride in his work and developed an impressive collection of over 3,000 Hot Wheels cars. He was known for his playful sense of humor, often dressing up as Elvis to entertain family and friends.
- Weldon passed away on March 30, 2026.
- Funeral services will be held on April 3, 2026.
The players
Willie Weldon Jr.
A 61-year-old resident of Monmouth, Illinois, who was a lifelong car enthusiast and worked as a car detailer for over 20 years.
Cherrie Weldon
Weldon's wife, who survives him.
What’s next
Weldon's funeral services will be held on April 3, 2026, at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory in Monmouth. He will be laid to rest at Warren County Memorial Park.
The takeaway
Weldon's passing is a loss for the Monmouth community, which has fondly remembered him as a dedicated worker, car enthusiast, and jokester who brought joy to those around him. His legacy will live on through the memories of his loved ones and the classic cars he so deeply admired.
