William T. "Billy" Clow

William T. "Billy" Clow was a vibrant force of lifehis energy, spirit, and heart will forever remain with those who knew and loved him. He passed away on Thursday, April 17, 2025, surrounded by his cherished family at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. Born on February 13, 1962, in Birmingham, Alabama, to William and Jeannine (Ingram) Clow, Billy brought light and laughter into the world from the very beginning. On March 9, 2024, he married Tammy Killian, who survives him and continues to carry his legacy of love and joy. Billy is also survived by his devoted mother, Jeannine Clow of Columbia, Missouri; his beloved children, Edan Clow, Cullen Clow, Addison Clow, and Kate Killian, all of Macomb, Illinois; his brother, Guy Clow, and sister, Laura Clow, both of Columbia, Missouri. A lifelong learner and seeker of wisdom, Billys passion for storytelling and creativity led him to a life in theatre and education. It all began at Hickman High School, where he discovered his love for theatrical lighting. He went on to earn a degree in Theatre and Creative Writing from the University of Missouri, followed by an MFA in Theatrical Design from Illinois State University. Billys career was marked by depth, purpose, and a profound impact. He was a theatrical designer, professor, department chair, dean, and interim provostroles he approached with dedication and heart. He taught at Stephens College, the University of WisconsinLa Crosse, the University of Montevallo, and finally, Western Illinois University, where he was instrumental in the creation of the Goldfarb Center for Performing Artsa project close to his heart. Though his time was cut short, Billys spirit remains deeply embedded in the walls of WIU. He bled purple and gold. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Billy was a man of many passions: woodworking, cooking, music, playwriting, and, most importantly, his family and those he held dear. He believed in people, in possibilities, in creativity, and in love. With a sharp wit and signature sense of humor, Billy could make you laugh until you criedor drive you a little crazy. He was endlessly curious, constantly pushing boundaries, and never afraid to challenge the status quo. Even as a child, he kept his mother on her toes. As an adult, he was a fierce and compassionate leaderrespected, admired, and deeply loved by his colleagues and students. If you were lucky enough to know him well, you knew the warmth of his warrior heart and the depth of his loyalty. We will remember Billy as a wellspring of creative energy, curiosity, and boundless love. His legacy will continue to inspire us for generations. Billy wasand always will bea soul who stays with you forever. Cremation has been accorded. To honor his life, the family will host a "Big Billy Party" on Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 5:00 - 9:00pm at Park Place on the Square in Macomb, Illinois. Memorial contributions in Billys honor may be made to the Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts at Western Illinois University. These contributions may be sent to WIU Foundation & Development, 303 Sherman Hall, 1 University Circle, Macomb, IL 61455 or visit our website: http://wiu.edu/honorbilly/ Dodsworth-Piper-Wallen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Please sign the guestbook and leave condolences at www.dodsworthfh.com. Big Billy Party Thursday, August 21, 2025 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Park Place on the Square Macomb,Illinois 61455 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of William, please visit our Tree Store.