Donald Beasley

Bunker Hill:

Donald L. Beasley, 97, passed away at 7:42pm on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at his residence with his family by his side. He was born on May 20, 1929, in Eldorado, the son of the late James and Nellie (McClellan) Beasley. He married the former Sylvia Grant on March 17, 1951, in Eldorado, and she preceded him in death on February 18, 2025. Survivors include a daughter: Diana Lankford of Bunker Hill, eight sons: James (Kris) Beasley of Wood River, Harry Beasley of East Alton, Roger (Frances) Beasley of Bethalto, Terry Beasley of Wood River, Kevin Beasley of Bunker Hill, Wayne (Lori) Beasley of Wood River, Bruce (Cheryl) Beasley of Godfrey, Bryan Beasley of Bunker Hill, thirty – nine grandchildren, sixty – two great grandchildren, eleven great - great grandchildren, a son in law: John Delap of Norris City, Illinois, and many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Donald was the founder of Beasley’s Service Stations. When he was younger, he ran a grocery store in his hometown of Eldorado, worked at the bowling alley in Harrisburg, and he and his brother roller skated in the circus. He later went to work for the State of Illinois Highway Department. He loved his horses and ponies.

In addition to his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter: Elaine Delap, four grandsons, two great grandchildren, and his siblings: Zelda, Robert “Jack”, Kathryn, Pauline, Lucy, Amanda, Harry, Nellie, Lillian, Mabel, James, Bonnie, Mildred, and Eugune.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 12pm until time of services at 2pm on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Following the services and in accordance with his wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. Pastor Art Hooper will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family and will be accepted at the funeral home.