Gerald L. Williamson

Gerald L. Williamson, 94, of Pekin, formerly of Havana, passed away at his home at 10:30 a.m.

on Saturday, January 3, 2026. He was born on December 28, 1931 in Peoria, Illinois to Richard
W. and Ruby (Lane) Williamson. He married the love of his life, Barbara J. Chown on March 25,
1972 in Havana, and she preceded him in death on March 15, 2016.
Gerald is survived by his children, Peggy (Steve) Respress of East Peoria, Kent Williamson of
Pekin, and Charlie (Judy) Williamson of Tampa, Florida; granddaughter, Robin (Jay) Respress-
Boyd of Morton; several great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Robert (Chris) Chown of Topeka
and sister-in-law, Bonnie (Steve) Bennett; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in
death by his parents; wife; brothers, William and Kenneth; son-in-law, Steve Respress,
daughter-in-law, Judy; niece, Lisa; and nephew, Greg.
Gerald served in the U.S. Army. He loved his family, gardening, fishing, and the St. Louis
Cardinals. He liked to spend his free time sitting by the river or porch sitting and visiting with
friends. He was fond of saying “They’re all good, some are just better than others.” when
someone told him to have a nice day.
Cremation rites have been accorded and a private burial will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made in Gerald’s name to the Havana Athletic Boosters Club.
Online condolences can be left for his family at www.hurleyfh.com.
Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.