William Neil Jennings

Bill Jennings, 78, of Olney, IL, passed peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on March 7, 2025 in Olney, IL.

Bill Jennings was born November 15, 1946 in Olney, IL to parents, Herman Jennings and Ruby Jennings (Waggoner). He married Barbara (Caudell) Jennings on March 17, 1973.

Bill graduated from East Richland High School in 1964 and then earned a degree in animal science from the University of Illinois. He later became an RN and served over 30 years in the Emergency Department at Richland Memorial Hospital. He was also a Dale Carnegie instructor for many years.

Bill was a lifelong grain and livestock farmer and showed Ayrshire Cattle for many years. He was very active in County Fairs at the local and state level and was President of the Richland County Farm & Fair Association for the majority of his adult life, and past President of Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs, and was currently serving on the Board of Directors.

Bill served as the Dairy Cattle Superintendent at the Springfield State Fair and the Duquoin State Fair.

Bill was an active member of the Masonic Lodge, the Shriners, and a Jester. He also supported the Shriners Children's Hospital.

Bill was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, canoeing, and helping his sons with their gardening and landscaping endeavors. He took pleasure in golfing and served on the grounds and greens committee at the Richland Golf Club.

Bill played the role of mentor and father figure to many through the years. His influence will continue through the example he set.

Bill is survived by his wife, Barb Jennings of Olney; son, Greg Runyon and wife Cheryl of Olney; son, Pat Jennings and wife, Jess, of Olney; grandchildren, Owen Jennings, Ruby Jennings, and Evan Jennings; sister, Glenda Berry of Paris, IL; and nieces, Diane, Darcy, and Lori.

Preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Wayne Berry; and beloved companion, Raven.

Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Olney has been entrusted with arrangements.

Visitation with meal and bar service will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Park Side Events Center in Olney. Masonic Services will follow the Memorial Services.

Interment will take place at Ebenezer Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials can be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital.