Donald E. Billups

Donald Edward Billups, 71, of Galesburg, died at 3:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at Seminary Manor in Galesburg.

He was born January 6, 1952, in Galesburg, the son of George Edward and Mary Louise (Stickle) Billups. His mother Mary passed away at the time of his birth and Don was later raised by his adopted mother Grace Courtright and stepfather Stanley Courtright. Donald was reared and educated in Galesburg, graduating from high school in 1970. In high school, he was a member of the Letterman Club and involved in the choir.

Left to cherish his memory is his adopted mother, Grace Courtright of Galesburg; two brothers, Stephan Billups of Rockton, Illinois and John Billups of Tomball, Texas; one sister, Deborah Courtright of Peoria, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father; biological mother; and stepfather, Stanley Courtright.

Don worked at Blick Art Materials for 27 years before retiring. He was an avid sports fan with some of his favorites being Illini, St. Louis Cardinals, Green Bay Packers, and his hometown Galesburg Highschool Basketball team. He was a longtime member of the First Christian Church in Galesburg. Donald will be deeply missed.

Cremation will be accorded. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Galesburg High School Athletic Department.