William Jean (Bill) Meriwether Jr. was born November 22, 1928 in Hire Township, McDonough County, Illinois to William J. and Ferne (Grigsby) Meriwether. He attended Willow Grove school and graduated from Blandinsville High School in 1946. He married Rosalyn Harl on June 6, 1954 in Colusa, Ill. She preceded him in death on January 12, 2008. He was also preceded in death by his parents, one daughter Judy Bell, one sister Luan Meriwether, and one brother Jim Meriwether. He is survived by son Dennis and daughter Susanne both of Arlington, Texas, sister Carolyn Kempher and sister-in-law Sherry Meriwether both of Blandinsville, and many nieces and nephews.
He was a proud veteran of the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict, farmed in the Blandinsville area for thirty years, and retired from NTN Bower Roller Bearing in 1991 after over twenty two years. He also worked as a crop hail adjuster during the summer for several years. He was involved in numerous organizations; American Legion Post 424 (Past Commander), the Laharpe Masonic Lodge (Past Master), Macomb Order of Easter Star (Past Patron), Quincy Consistory, Military Tract Lodge #145 IOOF, McDonough County Retired Teachers, the USAF 798th AC&W Radar Squadron Alumni, and the Blandinsville Christian Church.
He was a collector of many things including farm toys, antique kerosene lanterns, and pottery. He created many craft items from wood including Christmas Trees and birdhouses. And he had a knack for wheelin' & dealin' just about anything, cars, machinery, tools, you name it.
Cremation rites have been accorded. Masonic services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, January 9, 2026 at the Blandinsville Christian Church followed by a Memorial service at the church with Reverend A. Lee Unger officiating. Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at the church. Memorials may be made to the Blandinsville Christian Church, Blandinsville-Hire Library or the Blandinsville-Hire Rescue Squad.
Graveside burial of ashes will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 3, 2026 at Glade City Cemetery with Reverend A. Lee Unger officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the Macomb American Legion and Macomb VFW.
Clugston-Tibbitts Funeral Home in Blandinsville is in charge of arrangements. You may leave condolences and sign the guest book online at clugston-tibbitts.com.
