William E. (Bill) Godsell, 88, of Philo passed away peacefully Saturday morning, August 17, 2024, at his home surrounded by family.

Born on March 21, 1936, in Urbana, Illinois, Bill was the second of four children born to Richard (Dick) and Elizabeth (Lizzy) (McCormick) Godsell. His siblings were Joe (Ruth) Godsell, both survive, Theresa (George) Bozdech and Paul (Janice) Godsell

Bill grew up on the family farm just North of Philo. He attended St Thomas Elementary School in Philo and graduated from Unity High School in Tolono in 1953. After high school Bill immediately went to work at Meadow Gold Dairy in Champaign and would continue working there for the next 43 years. He was drafted into the Army in 1957 and was stationed in Verdun, France. While in France he was able to broaden his small-town country boy worldview through his service with a diverse set of fellow soldiers and by travelling extensively throughout Europe. He thoroughly enjoyed his time in the Army and often reminisced about his service with his unique story telling ability. Listening to Bill speak of the past was like walking into a time machine due to his remarkable talent for invoking voices and mannerisms of everyone in his stories. Bill continued to serve in the Army Reserve throughout the 1960’s.

Upon returning from France, he struck up a relationship with a girl he had met at his sister Thersa’s wedding just prior to shipping overseas. He would go on to marry Rita (Rund) Godsell on November 17, 1962, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in rural Pesotum. They formed a beautiful enduring union, and one could not think of one without thinking of the other. They were simply “Bill and Rita” for the next 60 plus years.

Bill was a loving father to three sons, Michael (Trudy) Godsell, Philo, Kevin (Wendy) Godsell, Buffalo Grove, Illinois, and David (Lynnae) Godsell, Naperville, Illinois. His natural kindness and sweetness throughout their lives served as a humbling example as to how they should lead their own lives. His family support was unwavering. He was simply always there in joy or sorrow.

Bill was devoted to his grandchildren, Emily (Alex) Ferguson, Nick, Ella, Lauren, Shannon, Alle and Zoe Godsell and one Great-Grandson, Mac Ferguson, all of whom adored him. Being near them and sharing in their accomplishments was the absolute joy of his life.

Other than his family, serving his community and church would be the most important devotions in his life. Bill served on the Village of Philo board for decades and was the co-chairman of the Philo Centennial celebration in 1975. In addition, he was a Philo volunteer fireman and was a member of the American Legion. He served as an honor guard at many memorial services up until 2023. At Philo St. Thomas he was a trustee and served on many committees. He was also a long-time member of the Knights of Columbus.

Bill’s legacy of kindness and overall pleasantness will be remembered by all who knew him. If he had ever met you, he would root for your success and revel in your accomplishments. He had a special connection with children and was “Uncle Bill” to many even if they were of no relation.

He was proceeded in death by his parents Dick and Lizzy Godsell, father and mother-in-law, Ted and Rita Rund, his siblings, Theresa (Godsell) Bozdech, and Paul Godsell, and their spouses, George and Janice respectfully, and one brother-in-law Steve Rund.

Visitation will be on Thursday August 22 from 5-7 at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Philo. A rosary will precede the visitation at 4:30. A funeral service will be held at St. Thomas Catholic Church on Friday August 23 at 10:30 with Father Keith Walder officiating.