Mr. Willie Louis Irby Sr.

January 4, 1949 - April 8, 2022

Mr. Willie Louis Irby, Sr., 73, of Peoria, IL transitioned to his heavenly home at 5:45 am on Friday, April 8, 2022 at UnityPoint Methodist Hospital. Willie was born on January 4, 1949 in Tunica, MS to John, Sr., and Georgia Mae (Richardson) Irby. He married the love of his life, JoAnn Wright in 1994…the culmination of 44 years of love and devotion. Willie was a great provider with an amazing work ethic. He loved his family and got along with everybody. Willie spoke the truth and was a straight shooter; he’d tell it like it is! He was a “Die Hard” Cardinal Fan! Willie also enjoyed going to car shows and racing cars. Willie leaves to cherish his most precious memories his loving and devoted wife, JoAnn Irby of Peoria, IL; seven children, Keith Woods of California, Malinda Woods of Peoria, IL, Willie (Keisha) Irby, Jr., of McDonough, GA, Alatin (LaToyia)Wright of Houston, TX, Ramoan (Ellen) Boston of Houston, TX, Juan (Dorothy) Boston of Humble, TX and Skyra Wright of Cypress, TX; one brother, Otis Irby, Sr., of Peoria, IL; two sisters, Georgia Mae Clark and Debber Ann Irby both of Peoria, IL; a host of grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; seven brothers, Joe Irby, John Irby, LC Irby, UV Irby, Charles, Irby, Mac Irby and Thomas “TK” Irby; three grandchildren and a sister-in-law, Birda Irby. Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Friday, April 22, 2022 at Sovereign Grace Baptist Church with a visitation beginning at 10 am. Pastor Alvin Riley, Sr., will officiate. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at simonsmortuary.com. The service will be live streamed on Simons Mortuary's Website or Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Simons-Mortuary-232095303487150 promptly AT THE TIME OF THE SERVICE (Central Time). Due to Covid-19, social distancing is encouraged to be consistent with recommendations from the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), funeral home directors have been instructed and should follow CDC guidelines on gatherings, including those directly related to funerals, visitations, or graveside services. *In an effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, we ask that everyone in attendance: wear a face mask and refrain from hugging, kissing and shaking hands (as hard as it is to see someone you care about and not touch them). *It is our responsibility as Funeral Directors, to do everything we can to advise families in order to honor our beloved Families and to keep everyone as safe as possible. Thanks in advance for your cooperation!