Billy David Milner, 85, of Salem, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Born on October 11, 1940, in Johnsonville, Illinois, he was the son of Harvey Joe Milner and Iva Marie Milner.
Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who found great joy in his family and community. On April 18, 1959, he married the love of his life, Judith “Judy” (Phillips) Milner in Makanda, Illinois. Together, they built a life centered around hard work, faith, and family.
Bill was the owner and operator of Milner McNeil Appliance Center, where he dedicated many years of service before retiring. He was well known in the community not only for his business but for his friendly nature and strong work ethic. He was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Salem and had also been involved with the Elks and Salem Country Club.
He enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, including golfing, hunting, and riding his Gold Wing motorcycle.
He is survived by his children, Tammie McNeil and husband Keith of Salem, and Bill Milner and wife Angie of Walnut Hill; grandchildren, Ashley Kleindorfer and husband Jason of O’Fallon, Illinois, Logan McNeil and wife Nicole Perna of Studio City, California, Mallory Prindable and husband Alex of O’Fallon, Illinois, Quinn Milner and wife Hana of Germany, Allie Gore and husband Trevor of Salem, Victor Milner of Salem, Joseph Cain Milner and significant other Tayler Nibert of Salem, and Liam Robinson of Mt. Vernon. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Teddy, Levi, Graham, Lincoln, Kinsley, Harrison, Brynn, Blaire, Hayven, Oliver, and Josie; his brother, Harvey Milner of Fairfield, Illinois; nieces Teresa Hill and Connie Butler; and great-niece and nephew, Steven Milner and Kelsey Milner.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Duey Milner and his wife Evelyn; his sisters, Betty Lee Milner; sister in-law, Barbara Milner; nephews Tony and Steven Milner; and niece Renee Milner.
A funeral service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Grace United Methodist Church in Salem, with Reverend Carol Lakota-Eastin officiating. Visitation will be held from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery in Salem.
Memorial contributions may be made to Bethlehem Cemetery, Bailey Cemetery, or Grace United Methodist Church and will be received at the church or at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem who is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.