Dr. William Bennett Root

DR. WILLIAM BENNETT ROOT, 41, of Red Bud, Illinois, passed away at 4:27 am, Thursday, March 12, 2026, at his residence.

He was born to Douglas Earl and Carol Anne (nee Roodhouse) Root on April 9, 1984, in Johnson City, Tennessee.

Dr. Root was a professor at Southeast Missouri State University who devoted his life to serving people with disabilities and supporting his community. He had a deep love of research and philosophy and was always exploring big ideas about the world and the human experience.

William was a poet, author, and musician whose creativity touched many lives. He had a playful spirit and loved a good prank, sharing in the laughter of those around him.

He found peace in nature, especially fishing. He was known to say, “Every cast a hope, every lure a dream,” but above all else, his greatest love was his niece, who meant the world to him.

William will be remembered for his curious mind, compassionate heart, and the joy he brought to others.

Survivors:

Mother:

   Carol Root  Red Bud, IL 

One Brother:

   Tim Root  Astoria, OR

One Sister:

   Mariha Root (Buddy Johnson)   Prairie du Rocher, IL

One Niece:

    Ariha Root  Prairie du Rocher, IL

Several Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and Friends

Preceded in death by: Father, Maternal Grandparents – Bennett & Mary Roodhouse, and Paternal Grandparents – Bill & Mary Jean Root

It was William’s wish to be cremated.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in William’s memory to The Nature Conservancy (www.nature.org) to honor his love of nature, fishing, and the outdoors.