Billy M Mansfield

Billy Max Mansfield, 84, of East Peoria, passed away at 11:27 AM on Sunday March 26, 2017 at his residence. He was born on March 2, 1933 in Decatur, IL to Glenn and Alfa (McDuffy) Mansfield. HE married Shirley B. Strickland in East Peoria on August 4, 1951. She survives along with one daughter, Carol (Jim) Thurston of East Peoria, three sons, Billy (Dianne) Mansfield Jr. of Urbana, James (Lindy) Mansfield of Jessup, Maryland, and Daniel (Jeanette) Mansfield of Tupper Lake, NY., nine grandchildren Ray, Josh and Jason Thurston, Robert Schlosser, Sarah, Elizabeth, Katherine, Billy and Brittany Mansfield, six great grandchildren, two sisters Kathy (Ted) Kern of Peoria and Mary Montgomery of Sarasota, FL, 1 brother Michael Mansfield, and Sister-in-law Shirley F. Mansfield of East Peoria. He was preceded by his parents, one grandson Joseph Schlosser, four brothers and three sisters.

Billy was a retired Major from the US Air Force. He served as a pilot flying refuelers throughout the world. In addition to flying in combat, he served as lead pilot transporting United States Presidents, astronauts, and military personal hops home. After his military service, he worked in Real Estate in the Peoria Area for twenty years.

Billy loved to play golf and won many local tournaments including the Peoria Men’s City Tournament. He enjoyed singing silly songs making those around him laugh. His greatest joy was playing with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Cremation will be accorded. Remmert Funeral Home is in care of the arrangements. Memorials may be made to the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home. On-line tributes and condolences may be made at www.remmertfuneralhome.com.