William M. Gwartney

William ‘Poge’ M. Gwartney, age 75 of Pittsfield, IL passed away Thursday, October 26, 2023, at Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield, IL. He was born May 23, 1948, in Louisiana, MO to Milton and Grace Grimsley Gwartney. Bill married Sharon Myers and she preceded him in death.

Bill grew up in Rockport, IL and in early years was a great basketball player and a talented singer who could imitate Elvis quite well. Bill was a self-employed asphalt paver and was a very hard worker. He was very determined, strict and somewhat rough around the edges but was reliable and caring. Bill enjoyed spending time outdoors boating, fishing and mushroom hunting and loved to go for rides through the countryside. He took pride in his appearance and never had a hair out of place. Bill loved country music, especially Merle Haggard; and enjoyed a good cup of coffee and a cigarette. Bill dearly loved his grandkids and enjoyed spending time with his family.

Bill is survived by sons, William ‘Billy’ Gwartney of Springfield, IL and Kenny Gwartney of Idaho; daughter, Christie Kirby of New Canton, IL; grandchildren, Kirstin Kirby and Madelynn Gwartney; great grandchildren, Londyn Robertson and Tatum Fearneyhough; sister, Vickie Miller of Rockport, IL; and companion and best friend of 15 years, Diana VanMeter of Baylis, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Grace Gwartney; wife, Sharon Gwartney; daughter, Tammy Gwartney; brother, Lonnie ‘Son’ Gwartney; and sisters, Gloria ‘Sis’ Wells, Doris ‘Tootie’ Foster and Greta Ellison.

Funeral services will be held privately. There will be a Celebration of Life held at 11:00 AM, Monday, October 30, 2023, at Rockport Town Hall in Rockport, IL.  Memorials are suggested to be made to the family c/o Niebur Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

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