Willie Beasley

Willie Lee Beasley, 64, passed away on October 15, 2024, at Swedish American Hospital. Born on July 23, 1960, in Rockford, Illinois, he was the son of Charlie Beasley and the late Mary Lou Beasley. Willie attended Auburn High School and was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs. Known for his passionate love of sports, he could often be found in front of his TV, loudly cheering on the Bears, even when they didn’t meet his expectations. One of Willie’s favorite pastimes was enjoying good food, always ready to savor whatever was available.

A dedicated member of Spirit of Truth Church, Willie was deeply involved in the congregation until his health began to decline. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Lou Beasley; maternal grandparents, Clifton Sr. and Mary Tennin; paternal grandparents, Willie and Katie Beasley; nieces, Pai Ying Beasley and Elizabeth Beasley; sister, Elaine Smith; and brother-in-law, Clarence Jordan.

Willie leaves behind his loving wife, Deborah Beasley; father, Charlie Beasley; daughter, Shakara (Kelvin) Murphy of Prescott, AR; stepson, Corey (Teresa) Pickens, who was more like a son to him; and four grandchildren, Khel’Shanti and KelShaun Murphy of Prescott, AR, and Tion and Tessa Pickens, who lovingly called him “Papa.” He is also survived by his sister, Katie Jordan of Memphis, TN; brothers, Charlie (Jackie) Beasley and Alphonso Beasley; mother-in-law, Flossie Pickens; three sisters-in-law, Karen (Greg) Bell, Beverly Pickens, and Carla (Al) Aberra; brother-in-law, Willie Horton; and godsons, Tevin Stevens and Jamar M. Stevens. Willie shared a special bond with his niece, Tamika Fletcher, and his goddaughter, De’Karri Beasley. He also leaves behind many other nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

Special thanks are extended to Dr. Natalie Reizine of the University of Chicago Illinois for her unwavering care and support during Willie’s most challenging times. Willie also cherished the companionship of close friends Joel and Trish Helfel, and Esma and Wena, who stood by him through everything.

Willie will be deeply missed, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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