David Lee Willey, 70, of Adair passed away at 4:48 p.m. Friday, May 27, 2022 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

He was born on June 20, 1951 in Macomb to George Truman and Josephine Jane (Murphy) Willey. He married Martha Rife on March 11, 1972. She survives.

Also surviving are one daughter, Ginger (Rob) Johnson of Macomb; two sons, Andy (Shanti) Willey of Bushnell and Derek (Caitlin) Willey of Macomb; four grandchildren, Reagan Johnson, Emily Johnson, Jake Willey and Natalie Willey; one sister, Tawny Butcher of Grinnell, Iowa and two brothers, Doug (Janet) Willey of Bardolph and Dan (Kristina) Willey of Marble Hill, Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

David proudly served in the U.S. Army and then worked for NTN-Bower in Macomb for 42 years before his retirement.

Anyone who knew Dave knew he was an exceptional person. A person who words just cannot explain. He enjoyed simple things like gardening, fishing with Marty, his dog Bella and smoking bacon. He was an amazing husband, father and grandfather and his family always came first. He was a rock, a best friend, and a mentor to those closest to him. He will be loved and missed forever.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A private graveside service will be held at a later date at the Willey Cemetery south of Macomb.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s.

Clugston-Tibbitts Funeral Home in Macomb is in charge of arrangements.

You may leave condolences and sign the guest book online at clugston-tibbitts.com.