William Robert Belew of Palmyra, MO, passed into the eternal peace of God April 3, 2024 in Hannibal, MO. He was born Nov. 2, 1970 in Owensboro, KY to the late Rev. Robert Belew and Rev. Mary Belew. His childhood was typical of a preacher’s kid: a lot of moving to different towns, experiencing new adventures, and making mischief along the way.

Will took community college classes as a young adult and tried several careers, but kept coming back to cooking, and felt at home in the kitchen. He was a lively co-worker at many different restaurants, country clubs and nursing homes in the Quincy, Il area. Thanks to his wacky sense of humor, and talent for creating goofy voices, he brightened many a day for many people, and he will be missed by his friends and family.

His pride and joy were his two children. He loved watching them grow up and was so proud of their talents and accomplishments. Whether attending their school events or simply sharing simple family meals of takeout pizza with his kids, often at his parents’ home, Will was glad to be a dad. Through his children, he found joy in everyday life. His children fondly remember great times playing video games with him. Both children are musically talented, and they credit Will for expanding their musical horizons. He would often drive them around and play classic rock.

Will also loved watching and talking about sports, particularly the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals. He was a lifelong superfan of both teams. What got most of his attention, though, were his cats. From childhood until the day he died, Will always had a cat companion near him. Over the years, he adopted many cats from animal shelters, and they always brought him peace and comfort.

Will is survived by his children, Veda and Martie Belew of Quincy, IL, a sister, Laura Belew Simcox, and her husband Patrick, and son Henry of High Point, NC, and many cousins, aunts and uncles.

Immediate arrangements are being taken care of by Duker and Haugh Funeral Home of Quincy, IL. A service celebrating Will’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Quincy, IL. Officiating will be Rev. Stacey Nicholas, and Will’s cousin, Rev. David Yonker of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Burlington, IA.