William "Willie" Howard, 66, of Washington, passed away Friday, June 7, 2024 at his home with his family by his side.

He was born December 10, 1957 in Bourbon County, KY to the late Earl and Alice Pruitt Howard.  He married Ruth Kellerstrass Suits in Peoria on June 20, 1992.  She survives.

Also surviving are one daughter, Nicole Suits, of Washington, one son Chad Howard; two granddaughters, Danial Sample and Essence Johnson; one brother, Gene (Kim) Howard; one sister, Debbie (Kevin) Brant; and several nieces and nephews.

William worked at BTD, formerly Miller Welding in Washington from 1987 until retiring on January 2, 2024.  He loved watching sports, fishing, gardening, and spending time with his granddaughters, family, and friends.  He will be dearly missed.

Private services will be held.  A public Celebration of Life will be held at 4pm, Friday, July 5, 2024 at the VFW, 300 Zinser Place, Washington, IL.  Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Midwest Affiliate, or to the Center for Prevention of Abuse.