William “Bill” James Strawbridge (“Irish”), 86, of Riverton, died on August 3, 2025, at Springfield Memorial Hospital. He was born July 11, 1939, in Londonderry, Northern Ireland. He married Patsy Flanagan on October 12, 1984, and she preceded him in death on May 3, 2024.
Surviving are his three sisters, Beryl Turner of Somerset UK, Olga Williamson of Oxfordshire, UK and Carol Wierzbicki of Wales, UK; two sons, Richard and Mark Strawbridge of Springfield; three stepsons Bill (Monica) Flanagan of Riverton, Gary and Jimmie Flanagan; one stepdaughter Pam and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert Donnell and Hessie Boyce Strawbridge, his ex-wife Sylvia, and a stepdaughter Linda.
Before coming to the United States, Bill served as a firefighter for the Londonderry Fire Department and as a soldier in the B Specials military unit.
After coming to the US, he became a master carpenter and worked for Evans Construction and Weber Interior Construction. He was also an integral part of bringing soccer to Springfield Illinois in the 1970s.
Bill was a 32nd degree Master Mason and Past Master with Riverton-Lavely Lodge #786 and Past Patron of the Eastern Star.
Bill enjoyed fly fishing with his buddies at the White River in Arkansas, camping, golfing, and woodworking.
Visitation: 9:30 am – 10:45 am, Monday, August 11, 2025, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield. A Masonic Service will be held at 10:45 am.
Funeral Service: 11:00 am, Monday, August 11, 2025, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Wounded Warriors Project who Bill strongly supported.
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