William Gardiner “Bill” Bird III, 80 of Auburn died Saturday, November 26, 2022 at Springfield Memorial Hospital.
He was born September 14, 1942 in Springfield, the son of William G., Jr. and Helen Modlinger Bird.
He married Pamela Beth Acord on August 30, 1963 in Aledo, IL.
Bill attended Auburn and New Berlin schools and graduated from Aledo High School. He graduated from Illinois State University with both a Bachelor and Masters degree in Industrial Technology. He also earned a Masters in Educational Administration from Sangamon State University, Springfield.
Mr. Bird’s professional life was dedicated to the education of children. He began his career in education teaching for the Elgin School District. Although he taught a number of years in that district, Bill also spent time as the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Service Youth Advisor for Kane County. The majority of his career was primarily focused as a principal in the Williamsville and Chatham School Districts. After retirement, Bill spent the next nineteen years serving as the Facilities Director at Hope Church.
His personal life was devoted to both faith and family. You could find him at nearly every event in which his children and grandchildren participated, loving them with his quiet support. He treasured his friendships. Bill was an avid gardener, wood worker, and fixer of all things.
Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Pamela; a son, William (Dawn) Bird IV of Morrison; two daughters, Missy (George) Knight and Laura (Bruce) Eaker both of Auburn; nine grandchildren: Will (Michelle) Bird, Dub Knight, Grace (Luke) Detloff, Cooper (Alana) Eaker, Cord Knight, Andy Bird, Benji (Ellison) Eaker, Sami Eaker and Ellie Knight.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Anne Drush.
Private family graveside will be held at Auburn Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3pm till time of memorial service at 6pm on Friday, December 2, 2022 at Hope Church, 3000 Lenhart Rd., Springfield, IL, with Pastor Troy Easley and Pastor Brian Mills officiating.
Memorials may be made to St. Labre Indian School, PO Box 216, Ashland, MT 59003-9989 or The Salvation Army, 1600 E. Clear Lake Ave., Springfield, IL 62703.
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