CHESTER – Anthony Linus “Tony” Williams, 51, passed away suddenly at his home early Saturday morning, October 24, 2026.

Tony was born and raised in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, to Linus and Wendy Williams. He participated in many sports during his school years and was recently inducted into the Mt. Vernon High School Hall of Fame for Track and Field events.

Tony enlisted in the Army, serving first in the 3rd Infantry Division, “Rock of the Marne”. He finished his career as an NCO at Leavenworth Disciplinary Barracks. Tony was always very proud of his military service and carried his learned leadership traits through the remainder of his life.

He met the love of his lifetime, Kristi, in 2004 and they were wed in Mt. Vernon on March 18, 2006. Kristi survives him. Tony took the idea of a package deal very seriously and always considered Peyton his daughter. In 2016, he was able to adopt her and make her the Williams he always considered her to be.

During his career at the Illinois Department of Corrections, Tony held many different positions. He returned to school to obtain his nursing license which afforded him the chance to have more time with family. After serving as a Med Tech, he was appointed the position of Assistant Warden of Programs at Menard. He was very proud of that achievement. Tony was then promoted to Warden and tasked with opening one of the first re-entry programs in the state of Kewanee. His motto “one team, one family” was carried through all of his programs at the facility and into his daily life.

Tony returned to the State of Illinois as a Nurse in the Chester Mental Health Center. He then transitioned to his current position, serving as Methods and Procedures Advisor to the facility. He was instrumental in procuring a federal grant to assist justice involved Veterans in transition from facilities to resources with the VA.

Tony and Kristi were looking forward to his retirement in 2027 to begin their life of travel. Tony was always happy to catch a fish on his favorite lake in Texas, work on some new and exciting project, or be in the “Most Magical Place on Earth”, Disney World. Above all else, Tony’s most precious pride and joy was his family. His daughter, Peyton Williams, brought a huge smile to his face. He was always so proud of her accomplishments and was honored to help guide her in her leadership journey.

Tony enjoyed working with his hands and spent many hours on projects that eventually took off as a business, Man Glitter Creations. He and his close friend and business partner, Jim Draves, made magic in their shop. He was excited about expanding the business when he retired.

He is survived by his mother, Wendy Williams, his wife, Kristi (Lee) Williams, his daughter, Petyon (Bailey Gourley) Williams, his pups, Groot and Molly, as well as many other family, cousins and countless lifelong friends

Tony is preceded in death by his father, Linus Williams, his mother and father-in-law, Donald (Mary Sue) Johnson, and his aunts and uncles.

The family asks that we honor Tony’s memory by wearing Disney gear. In lieu of flowers, the family also requests to please consider a donation to Randolph County Humane Society.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, 3:00 pm, at Wilson’s Funeral Home, Steeleville, IL, with Rev. Mike Fogerson officiating. Visitation will be Monday afternoon, October 29, 2026, where friends may call from 12:00 – 3:00 pm. To sign the guest book, visit www.wilsonsfuneralhome.net.