William “Bill” Albert Paxton, 74, of Freeport, IL, passed away Thursday, March 5, 2026, in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born March 27, 1951, in Freeport, IL, the son of Howard and Alice “Ruth” (Whitsell) Paxton. Bill married Linda Schulz on November 25, 1970, in Freeport, IL. He was employed as a computer programmer and after retiring he found great joy in driving bus for the Rockton School District. He was a member of the Red Oak United Methodist Church. Being strong in his faith, he served on the church board for many years. He also served on the Grandview Cemetery board. In his free time, Bill loved to go camping and also enjoyed attending his grandkids’ sporting events. Most of all, Bill loved spending time with his family. He was an avid Chicago Bears fan. Bill’s favorite holiday was Christmas and loved to light up his home for the season.

Bill is survived by his wife, Linda of Freeport, IL; three daughters, Tina (Jami) Thruman of Freeport, IL, Dawn (Robert) Jones of Davis, IL, and Renee (Harold) Andrews of South Beloit, IL; sister, Cindy (Randy) Schmertman of Menomonie, WI; two nieces, Jennie (Eric) Arvidson and Mandy (Dean) Ziemienski; seven grandchildren, Anna Andrews, Bailey Jones, Dale Thruman, Riley Jones, Kiersten Andrews, Ryan Thruman, and Mariah Andrews; and great-grandson, Jordan; and brothers and sisters-in-law Dianna (Dave) Jones of Fort Worth, TX, Lenny Schulz, Wayne Schulz and Theresa Schulz all of Freeport, IL.

Preceding Bill in death are his parents, Howard and Ruth Paxton; mother and father-in-law, Leonard and Wilma Schulz; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Red Oak United Methodist Church, 6627 N Red Oak Rd, Freeport, IL 61032, Pastor Matthew Smith officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service. There will also be a visitation from 4:00-7:00 P.M. Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home, 504 North Walnut Avenue, Freeport, IL, 61032. Burial will be at Grandview Cemetery. A memorial has been established in Bill’s memory.