Birth date: Sep 19, 1958 Death date: Oct 24, 2025
William Ray Trueblood September 19th, 1958 ~ October 24th, 2025 William “Bill” Ray Trueblood was born on September 19, 1958, in Bloomington, Illinois, to parents William Roy Trueblood and Janice (Daily) Erkilla. He passed away on Read Obituary
Bill was a great friend. We shared lots of experiences in our late teens and early 20s in Minneapolis. Even then, Bill loved the outdoors. He, my brother and I had a memorable day hiking at Kettle River State Park. And he was already learning handyman skills as he got our church group together to help him renovate his mom’s house. We saw his sense of fun when he got a green gorilla costume; we made good use of it! But above all, his heart was on fire for Jesus. What a wonderful man!
I met Bill years ago when I started dating his son Nate. He was a good man and a great father to Nate. He was well loved and cared for by his wife Dotty and daughter Beth. He would often stop to say “i love you” while staring into Dotty’s eyes. Their relationship and love is to be admired. I wish we could have had more time with him, but know he is at peace. He thankfully was able to make it to Nate and I’s wedding in May 2025 and walk Nate down the aisle. It was such a special memory for our friends and family to witness. We will miss him.
Love Emilia Trueblood
This is inspirational from MOM
GOD LOVES EVERYONE AND WILL NEVER LEAVE US!
In Loving Memory of Bill Trueblood
Bill was more than a brother—he was a friend, a teacher, a protector, and at times even a challenger—but most of all, he was a mentor who helped lead me to the Lord Jesus Christ. He gave me my first Bible on January 25th, a precious gift that, though worn and falling apart from years of use, I still hold close to my heart.
One of my fondest memories of Bill takes me back to our childhood. During a heavy snowstorm, we built a snowman together—dressed it in suspenders, pants, boots, a scarf, and a hat—and placed a shovel in its hand. We stood proudly beside it, imitating our creation for a photo that later became a Christmas card decorated with hand-cut paper snowflakes on royal blue cardstock for our loving family and friends. The power had gone out, but the fire burned bright that day—just like the warmth Bill always brought into our lives.
Bill had a great heart and a gentle spirit. Though not perfect, his love for others and his faith in the Lord were pure and unwavering. He took many under his wing, always offering kindness and guidance rooted in his love for Christ.
On the morning I learned that Bill had gone home to be with Jesus, I heard his voice in my sleep saying, “Please tell Nathan to wash and come clean.” I believe this was God’s way of using Bill’s life—and his passing—to remind us all of the call to be cleansed and renewed by the blood of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
Bill’s life was a reflection of God’s grace, and his legacy continues to shine through all those he loved and inspired. Though we mourn his passing, we rejoice knowing he now rests in the glorious light of God’s love and I will absolutely see him again, so although I grieve, it is not as the “rest” of mankind, for through Jesus Christ there is life eternal.
From his loving sister
Jayne Trueblood
As a cousin, I remember our many family fun times as children. We gathered often at our grandparents' home and spent many times together in Illinois. He was a very kind, loving and spiritual individual. Additionally, he is survived by his mother (Janice), siblings (Linda McClary, Joyce Brom and Dee Trueblood) and numerous cousins. God bless you Bill! -Steve & Becky Emerson
A fond memory I have of Bill was 3 years ago, on his 64th birthday. Mom, Linda, Jayne and I met in Tulsa to celebrate his birthday and when we arrived at his home, he was sooo happy to see us. With a huge smile on his face, He said “I can’t believe we are all together!” Bill wasn’t able to communicate well at this stage of his illness but he clearly said those words…. And he repeated them several times with clarity and enthusiasm.
My brother Bill is in God’s Kingdom-in paradise with Jesus! No more being laughed at or disrespected because of his earthly body failing him.
One day the trumpet will sound, the rapture will occur and his spiritual body will receive a glorified body and we will all be together again.
Until then he will be known as he was known by family and friends who have gone to heaven already.
I can only imagine!
Much Love, your sister Joyce ❤️
1st picture = From out trip 3 years ago
2nd picture = My retirement. Wish Bill could have seen this.
