William Gillette

William “Billy” Gillette, 71, of Davenport, and formerly of Bushnell, IL, passed away at his home on Monday, May 29, 2023.

He was born March 17, 1952, to Charles and Lola (Singleton) Gillette at Saunders Hospital, Avon, IL.  He grew up in rural Illinois where his passion for old cars and trucks began. He enjoyed playing baseball and just being a kid which he always was at heart.  He loved his family very much, his dog “Kidd” and especially his old truck “Jody Girl”.

He dedicated more than half of his life to the AA program where he helped so many people.  He would help anyone without any return expectations.  He was surrounded by great neighbors and friends who loved and cared for him deeply.

His passion for dirt track racing was what he enjoyed more than anything, sometimes going to several races a week with the old jalopy class being his favorite.  He worked for O’Reilly Auto Parts for over twenty years and continued to do so even after retiring.  He made many friends at the shops and stores he delivered to over the years.

He is survived by his mother Lola Gillette; sisters Marjorie Spiker, Bess (Greg) Reisselman, Shirley (Jim) Martin; brother Andrew Gillette; many nieces and nephews; extended family Scott and Esther Larson, John and Cherrie Sabel; close friends Dave, Kelly, Sharon, Victoria, and so many others who will sadly miss him.

He was preceded in death by his father, brother Chester Gillette, and life partner Marlys Swanson.

The family would like to thank Genesis Health and O’Reilly’s for all of their help and support.  Memorials may be made to AA of Davenport.  Cremation rites have been accorded and arrangement announcements will come at a later date.

Online remembrances may be expressed at www.hmdfuneralhome.com.