William E. Wright

William Edward Wright, 79, of Galesburg, died Saturday, December 24, 2022 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg.

Bill was born June 23, 1943 in Cumberland County, Virginia the son of Horace William and Nannie Sue (Sloan) Wright. In his early years, Bill worked at Briggs Manufacturing and then worked at Gates Rubber Company more than 44 years prior to retiring. Bill loved the outdoors and everything that came with it. In his free time Bill enjoyed gardening, hunting and fishing. He will be remembered for the best tomatoes and watermelons. He loved to help others. He spent many hours working in his workshop making knives and other things.

Bill married Joyce Marie (Briggs) Cox on October 4, 2002 in Galesburg. She survives as do his children, Steven (Sandra) Matheny of Galesburg, Kevin Wright of Moline, Illinois, Joshua Cox of Chicago, Illinois, Georgia Matheny of Davenport, Iowa, and Chrystal Homer of Abingdon, Illinois; along with numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Bill is also survived by three sisters, Wanda Barlow of Chesterfield, Virginia, Nancy Cole of Cumberland, Virginia, and Elizabeth Hair of Chesterfield, Virginia; and many cousins. Along with his parents, Bill was preceded in death by one son, Robbie on October 22, 2016 and one brother.

Cremation has been accorded. A Graveside Service will be held Friday, July 14, 2023 at 11:00 am at the Abingdon Cemetery followed by a Celebration of Life at the Thomas Legacy Center, 1849 N Seminary St, Galesburg. Memorials may be directed to the family.