On the morning of May 2, 2026 William ( Tooter ) passed away at St. Anthony's Medical Center in, Rockford IL.

He was 81 at the time of his passing.

William ( Tooter )  was born on January 8th 1945,

In Greeneville, TN. To Lucille and William Phillips.

William ( Tooter ) was united in marriage to Trudy Hennessy on June 5, 2009.

Throughout his life, He worked at Wurlitzer Piano factory in Dekalb, Turner Brass/Cooper tools in Sycamore and R&D Thiel in Belvidere,IL.

William ( Tooter ) was an outstanding man all around. His love for his family and friends are unmatched.

He loved to work with his hands building beautiful pieces of furniture and decorations. He enjoyed traveling with his wife Trudy,  having breakfast with his friends at the Genoa cafe (all while giving the waitresses a hard time), Hosting parties surrounded by family and friends, and enjoying delicious smoked meats while having a ice cold beer!

William ( Tooter ) is Survived by his wife Trudy Hennessy,  his daughter Wendy Phillips Cook of West Virginia,  grandsons Nicholas ( Corrina ) Kuhn of Colorado, Anthony ( Kayla ) Kuhn of Genoa, and Alexander Kuhn of Genoa. Two great grandchildren Willow Kuhn and William Kuhn. His nephew William ( Carla ) Phillips of sycamore IL, Sister Dolly ( Jancer ) Bailey of Greeneville TN, Nephew Kelly ( Kimberly) Bailey of Greeneville TN and  Sister- in- Law Cynthia  ( Jim ) Phillips of Kingsport, TN.  As well as several nieces and nephews.

William ( Tooter ) is preceded in death by his late wife Diana Butz (July 11th, 1964 - February 3rd, 2004), a daughter  Heidi Jo Phillips, and brothers William ( Stoney ) Phillips, Roger Phillips, and Fred Phillips.

William ( Tooter) Phillips visitation will be held Wednesday, May 13th From 4:00 - 7:00pm at Slater- Butala Funeral Home, 132 W. Main street, Genoa,IL. A Funeral service will begin at 7pm. At the funeral home.

The inurnment of his ashes will be private.

A remembrance gathering / Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May, 16th- Starting at 3pm.  Located at the family home (TruShan Lodge) - 33065 Genoa Rd, Genoa IL. 60135.

All are welcome and invited. Food and refreshments will be provided.

To sign the online guest book, go to www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com