John W. “Bill” Abbott, Sr. age 87, of Monmouth, Illinois, passed away at 12:42 AM on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at Seminary Manor in Galesburg, Illinois. He was born August 3, 1937 in Monmouth, Illinois, the son of Orin Preston and Hanna (Doyle) Abbott. Bill attended schools in Little York and Monmouth. On May 9, 1958 he married Sonya Higham and she is surviving.
Bill was an over the road truck driver his entire 42 year career. He worked for Munson Transportation, Monmouth, Illinois and Hiel Transportation of Prairie City, Illinois. Bill enjoyed camping, watching old Westerns, especially John Wayne. He and Sonya enjoyed making Christmas ornaments and lawn decorations. Bill enjoyed sitting around the table, having a cold beer, and telling stories with his brother Bob.
Bill is survived by his wife Sonya of Monmouth, Illinois, two daughters, Pam (Jim) Thomas of Reynolds, Illinois and Debbie (Jim) Pulse of Monmouth, Illinois, one son, Mike (Robin) Abbott of Monmouth, Illinois, ten grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren. Also surviving are two sisters, Connie (Don) Emery of Galesburg, Illinois and Peggy Abbott of Galesburg, Illinois, and his daughter-in-law Kathy Abbott of Alexis, Illinois. He is preceded in death by his parents, his son Billy, and eleven brothers and sisters.
A funeral service for Bill Abbott is planned for 11:00 AM on Monday, October 14, 2024 at Turnbull Funeral Home in Monmouth, Illinois. His family plans visitation from 9:30-11:00 AM prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will follow the service at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Monmouth, Illinois. A memorial is being established to assist Bill’s family with final expenses.
