Bill T. Utley

Mr. Bill T. Utley, 74, of Peoria, Ill., passed away Wednesday, July 6, 2011, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

He was born Oct. 25, 1936, in Holland, Mo., to Everett T. and Lola M. (Walker) Utley. He married Bonnie Deaner on Dec. 22, 1955, in Hot Springs, Va. She survives.

His parents preceded him in death.

In addition to his wife, he leaves two sons, Dennis (and Tracie) Utley of Peoria and Darrell (and Lori) Utley of Northport, Fla.;

Two daughters, Denise (and Donald) Thompson of Tremont and Debbie (and Scott) Vanier of Dunlap;

A half sister, Bess Ann Pease of Blytheville; and

Thirteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Mr. Utley was previously the owner/manager of Dunkin' Donuts on Knoxville and University in Peoria for 25 years. Later he was a driver for Peoria Charter Coach. He also assisted his son at River Valley Auctions for several years.

He was a U.S. Army veteran.

He and his wife were faithful members of El Vista Baptist Church, where he served as past treasurer.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at El Vista Baptist Church, 6301 N. Syler in Peoria with the Rev. Joey Watt officiating. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Friday also at the church. Burial will be in Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria. Davison-Fulton-Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria has assisted the family with arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to El Vista Baptist Academy at 6301 N. Syler, Peoria, IL 61615.