William E. Hornsby, 91, of Rochelle, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2009 at Rochelle Rehabilitation Center. He was born on Aug. 11, 1917 in Rochelle to William A. and
Hazel B. (Vallette) Hornsby. He graduated from Rochelle Township High School in 1936 and then served four years in the US Army, European Theater during WWII. Bill married Margaret D. Peace on Jan. 6, 1946 in Hopkinsville, KY and she preceded him on Nov. 7, 2004. Also preceded by his parents and infant son: Lewis. He joined his father in business after returning from service and managed the Hornsby Store in Barrington for 4 years before returning to Rochelle. Worked for Ace Hardware and also the Shoe Rack. He was a member of the Rochelle United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his son: Will (Brigid Finucane) Hornsby Jr. and granddaughter Briana Hornsby all of Skokie, IL.

Services will be at Unger-Horner Funeral Home on Thursday, June 25, at 11:00 AM with
Rev. Brett Todd. Cremation rites will follow and burial will be at Lawnridge Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Hub City Senior Citizens or to Rochelle United Methodist Church.