William L. McVey

William "Bill" McVey, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully passed away on August 20, 2026, at OSF St. Mary’s Medical Center in Galesburg, surrounded by the warmth of his family.

Born on July 7, 1942, in Galesburg, Illinois, Bill was the beloved son of Betty Weinberg McVey and Lyle McVey. From a young age, Bill's life was rooted in Galesburg, where he graduated from Galesburg Senior High School. During his high school years, he discovered his love for gardening while working at Celosia Gardens. This passion for plants and the joy of nurturing them stayed with him throughout his life. After graduation, Bill embarked on a career at BNSF Railroad before joining Gale Products, where he dedicated 17 years. However, the lure of his early gardening days never left him, and he pursued his dream by establishing The Greenhouse, a concrete and plant store, which he proudly owned and operated for an impressive 47 years. Bill delighted in traveling to source unique concrete and lawn ornaments, bringing joy and beauty to his community.

On July 27, 2005, in Las Vegas, Nevada, Bill married the love of his life, Marjorie. Together, they created a family legacy filled with love and laughter. Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Marjorie, His Aunts Sharon Henson and Ruth Whitsitt His stepchildren; Scott(Kris) Wagher, Kristine(Matt) Sprinkle, William(Julie) Kalin, and Susie Balint. His legacy continues through his nine grandchildren—Logan(Raniyah) and, Devin Wagher, Mitchell and Mason Sprinkle, Nole, Alex, and Trace Kalin, Jeffrey(Emily) Edwards, and Bryce Edmund—and two great-grandchildren, Finn and Asher Edwards. He loved and was loved by many cousins.

Bill was a man of many interests. He cherished spending time with his family, who were the heart of his existence. He was known for his enthusiasm for gambling, cheering on his favorite NASCAR driver, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and his unwavering support for the Kansas City Chiefs. Bill's infectious smile and warm spirit left an indelible mark on everyone he met. Preceding him in death were his grandparents, Ted and Mary Weinberg, his parents, Betty and Lyle McVey, and his cousin, Mike Calhoun. Their memories and love remained ever-present in his heart. Bill's radiant personality and kindness will be missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, August 24, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with Bill’s dear friend, Dennis Ackman officiating. Burial will follow at East Linwood Cemetery, Galesburg. His family requests that donations in his memory be made to a charity of your choice, honoring the generous spirit that Bill embodied throughout his life. As we say goodbye, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.