William "Bill" Eugene Blankenship Jr.

William Eugene Blankenship Jr., "Bill", 65, of Mapleton, IL, passed away on December 17, 2024, surrounded in the comfort of his loved ones. Bill was born on August 25, 1959 in Peoria, IL, to parents, William Eugene Blankenship Sr. and Elsie Ann Thomas. Bill married Cassandra Hammer in 1984 and celebrated 40 years of marriage.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents. Left to cherish his memory is his loving family; wife, Cassandra Blankenship; daughter, Melissa Blankenship Borders (Adam); son, Cory Blankenship (Lindsey); granddaughters, Cambria Borders and Livia Borders; and sisters, Belinda Dossett (Michael) and Barbara Hardmeier; as well as several loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

An avid music fan with a rock n' roll heart, Bill was an incredible drummer who passed the gift of music down to his children. Bill particularly enjoyed Styx and attended many concerts together with his wife, Sandy. Bill had enjoyed holding a patent for a twirling ring for drumsticks after seeing the need. He was a collector of many things, including marbles - recently displaying his prized collection at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Bill loved his motorcycle, classic cars, old toys, and rooted for The Chicago Bears. Bill especially enjoyed The Fish House Restaurant where he shared many wonderful meals with family and friends.

A funeral service for Bill will be held on Monday, December 23, 2024 at 11:00am in the chapel of Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel. Burial will follow at Chillicothe City Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 22, 2024 from 4-6pm at the funeral home.

Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.