William A. “Uncle Bill” Hawkey Jr., age 80, of Kinmundy, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
Bill was born on October 30, 1945, in Farina, Illinois, the son of William Hawkey Sr. and Eva Blanche (Perry) Hawkey.
On October 21, 1964, Bill married the love of his life, Judy Marie Smith, in Iola, Illinois. Together, they shared 62 years of marriage, building a life filled with family, hard work, and cherished memories.
Bill spent his entire working life in the oil fields, where he became a well-known and respected figure throughout the industry. There wasn’t much about the oil business that Bill didn’t know, having worked in nearly every aspect of the oil field throughout his career. To Bill, working wasn’t just a job; it was a passion and a way of life. His dedication, knowledge, and years of hard work earned him the respect of countless friends and coworkers. As those who knew him would say, “The oil patch lost a legend.”
Bill was a member of Kinmundy Christian Church and also dedicated many years of his life to serving his community as a volunteer with the Kinmundy-Alma Fire Department. His willingness to give his time and lend a helping hand reflected the same dedication and hardworking spirit that defined so much of his life.
“Let me tell you a little story.” Bill enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He loved mowing grass and could often be found keeping busy outdoors. He was also an avid ham radio and CB radio enthusiast, enjoying the friendships and conversations he made over the airwaves. Music was another important part of Bill’s life. He loved to play music and sing and was affectionately associated with “Uncle Bill and the Playboys.” Whether he was working, mowing, talking on the radio, or making music, Bill was happiest when he was doing something he loved.
Whether it was working in the oil fields, mowing his grass, or doing anything in his everyday life, Bill was a perfectionist and wanted things done just right.
Above all, Bill treasured his family and the many friendships he made throughout his life. His hardworking spirit, love of music, and unforgettable personality will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Bill is survived by his loving wife, Judy Marie (Smith) Hawkey of Kinmundy; three children, Bradley William Hawkey and Stephanie (Mount) Hawkey of Kinmundy, Tamyra (Hawkey) Sampson of Hazel Green, Alabama, and Denise Marie (Hawkey) Pitts and husband Darren Pitts of Scottsdale, Arizona; five grandchildren, Braddon William Hawkey and Haley Duncan of Kinmundy, Brandon Keith Hawkey and wife Kaitlyn (Wilkins) Hawkey of Iuka, Davis Michael Pitts and Carley (Gray) Pitts of Cave Creek, Arizona, Alexandria Morgan Sampson and Evan Clark of Hazel Green, Alabama, and Denae Mikala Pitts and fiancé Kyle Farrell of Phoenix, Arizona; and four great-grandchildren, Kollyns Marie Hawkey, Jordan Rose Pitts, Neveah Dawn Hawkey, and Emberlyn Rose Clark.
He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William and Eva Blanche Hawkey; his six siblings, including Ellen Gessell and her husband, Don. Don was instrumental in Bill getting his start in the oil fields and started a multi-generational career in the field of work; and his lifelong best friend, Jim Thrash, with whom he started a mowing business when they were young children.
Funeral services for Bill will be held at 12:00 noon on Monday, October 26, 2026, at Kinmundy Christian Church, with Jason Thrash officiating. Burial will follow at Keen’s Chapel Cemetery near Farina. Visitation will be held at the church on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Kinmundy-Alma Fire Department or Mission Salem and will be received at the church or at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem, which is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.CrouseFH.com.
