Billy J. Barnhill

Billy J. Barnhill, 82, of Chatham, died at 11:31 p.m. on Thursday, October 30, 2014 at his home. Billy was born October 4, 1932 in Wheel, KY, the son of Harve and Maude Peyton Barnhill. He married Sharon Lounsberry on February 14, 1997 in Springfield. Billy graduated from East St. Louis High School and then proudly served his country in the United States Navy for four years during the Korean Conflict. He then became an Illinois State Trooper in District 11 until he was transferred to District 9 and was assigned as executive security for Lt. Governor Dave O'Neil, Attorney General Ty Fahner, and Secretary of State Jim Edgar. Billy was a member of the State Police American Legion Post 1922 and was an avid Cardinals fan and enjoyed football. Bill served as a member of the Chatham Zoning Board and also as a Police Commissioner for the Fireman and Police Commission. He also bowled in leagues that competed in tournaments across the country and enjoyed having coffee with his friends at Hardee's. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Peyton "Red" Barnhill. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Barnhill of Chatham; five children, Connie (husband, Michael) Grubermann of Franklin, NC, Billy J. (wife, Kathi) Barnhill of Independence, LA, Melissa (husband, Crawford) Bealon of Springfield, Whitney (husband, John) Seaborn of Plainfield, and Brandi (husband, Christopher) Barnett of Springfield; four grandchildren, Chris (wife, Jill) Miller of Chicago, Daine, Payton and Lauren Bealon, all of Springfield; three great-grandchildren, Shay Bealon of Springfield, Ian Miller of Chicago, and Nora Miller of Chicago; and several cousins. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m. 12:15 p.m. on Monday, November 3, 2014 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Funeral Ceremony: 12:30 p.m. on Monday, November 3, 2014 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. Private family burial will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to: Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation, 4000 N. Peoria Rd., Springfield, IL 62702.