William "Bill" D. "Bill" Button

William D. "Bill" Button, a lifelong resident of Morris and a pillar of the community, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on August 12, 1942, to the late Charles Earl and Dorothy (Brooks) Button.

Bill was the beloved husband of Carol (Carlson) Button, with whom he shared 64 years of marriage filled with love and cherished memories. He was a devoted father to his children, Cynthia (Scott) Belt, William Button Jr., and Tracy Ann Steffes. His role as a grandfather to Tara, Jessica, Jenna, Monica, Lexie, Tyler, Hali, and Logan, and as a great-grandfather to seven great-grandchildren, brought him immeasurable joy. Bill is also survived by his sister, Deborah (Steve) Kommer; his brother, Charles Earl Button Jr.; sister-in-law Judy Buttry; and numerous nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Jackie Lutz and Patricia Sterritt, and his in-laws Swede and Irene Carlson and Sharon Heisner.

A proud graduate of Morris High School's class of 1960, Bill embodied the motto, "Redskin Pride Never Dies!" He was the first president of the Morris Quarterback Club, demonstrating his leadership and passion for local sports. After high school, Bill began his career at the Morris Paper Mill before dedicating his life to law enforcement. He served the Morris Police Department and later the Grundy County Sheriff's Department, where he was appointed Sheriff and then elected to the position, serving from 1972 until 1982. His tenure as Sheriff was marked by significant contributions, including initiating Grundy County's participation in the Metropolitan Area Narcotics Squad (MANS) and overseeing the construction of the new jail at the Grundy County Courthouse.

Following his distinguished career in law enforcement, Bill worked for the Secretary of State until his retirement in 2002.

Bill's interests and activities outside of work were a testament to his vibrant character and his love for his hometown. From thrilling crowds with diving board tricks at the Morris pool at the tender age of six to serving on the Morris High School Board of Education, Bill's zest for life was evident. He coached CYO flag football at ICS, was a devout member of the Immaculate Conception Church.

An avid White Sox and Chicago Bears fan, Bill's passion for sports was only matched by his love for old country music and westerns on television. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as cooking, gardening, and meeting friends every morning at Clayton's. His Bayles Lake home was a source of serenity and happiness, a place where many cherished memories were made.

Memorials may be made in Bill's name to Lightways Hospice in Joliet.

A visitation for Bill will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at the UC Davis- Callahan Funeral Home on Morris. A celebration of Bill's life will follow at noon, officiated by Celebrant Carol Walker. Inurnment will take place at Sample Cemetery at a later date.