William S. “Bill” Little

November 3, 1940 - May 24, 2025

Bill passed away at home in his sleep on May 24, 2025 due to cancer.
He was born in Portage, WI to William G. Little and Thayne E. Geeslin and was the older brother to his beloved sister, Lela Schaefer.  Bill loved his childhood.  He was surrounded by family and friends all living within walking distance.
The family moved to Mattoon, IL where he shared a special friendship with Gary Groff. Bill graduated from high school, followed by some business education.
He married Donna Mayer (later divorced). Two sons were born of this union: Patrick (Melissa) and Robert, and 5 grandchildren; Talen (Jayden), Skyler (Lexie), Aspen, Lainey and Brooks.
Bill worked for General Electric, Western Sales Division.  The family was transferred, and they lived in Kansas, Montana and Sandy, UT.  After the move to Utah, Bill worked for Jerry Seiner and Larry H. Miller.  He was a great asset and inspiration to all.
Bill and Judy met and married.  This was a new and beautiful chapter which began their 20-year love story.  They were known as the ‘Luv Brds’.  Judy brought three adult children to the marriage: Mark (Teresa), Matt (Deceased), Kellie (Richard) and 7 grandchildren.  This increased the blended family to 5 children and 12 grandchildren.  Sisters Lela and Carole as well as many beloved aunts, nieces/nephews and cousins.
Bill left a legacy of love and a positive attitude always.  If asked how he was, his response was “Fantastic.”  He loved and embraced all.  Never speaking bad about anyone.
He loved his faith, family, friends and neighbors.  He always enjoyed his front porch, where there was a constant flow going by – honking and waving. His St. Thomas More family, Knights of Columbus, bingo, fishing, traveling, Hale Theater & all celebrations of family and friends.  His home and dog, eating out and movies.
A viewing will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East where a vigil service will begin at 7:00 PM.  Guests are encouraged to use the parking and entrance on the north side of the building.  Funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday, June 13, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 3015 East Creek Road, Cottonwood Heights, where visitation will begin at 10:30 AM. A light luncheon to follow.  Interment will be at Valley View Memorial, 4335 W. 4100 S., WVC.
Special thanks to all of our families and friends that helped and supported us during this last journey – Kellie, Richard, Stephanie, Carole, Pat, Melissa, Rob, Mark, Teresa & extended families as well as our Hospice Team: Levi & Sofia.
Bill will be loved and always carried in our hearts.

In Loving Memory

Judy, I will certainly miss seeing Bill and chatting briefly with him on the porch. Being your neighbor for the past 11 years has certainly been a blessing in my life. I have appreciated the friendship and conversations over the years. I know how big a void this will be for you. I pray for God's comforting spirit to surround you and lift you up during this time. Steve

Steven Sargent

West Jordan, Utah

Sweet Judy, you know how much we love both you and Bill. His beautiful smile and positive attitude were always there to cheer up everyone he came in contact with. I am so happy he found you and I will never forget the day he brought you to church the first time. He had definitely found his angel. We are here if you need us. Fly with the angels into God’s arms our beloved Bill. Margie and Bob

Bob and Margie Petersen

Taylorsville, Utah

Dear Judy and Family, Thank you for sharing Bill with all of us at St. Thomas More. His angel Judy and his family are his joy and a testament to a life well lived! I loved seeing that joyful license plate in the STM parking lot 'LUV BRDS'. God bless you all and may His angels carry you through this very difficult time.

Michelle Jones

Midvale, UT

Bill was a great member of the Mattoon High School Class of 1960 and much enjoyed when he was able to make it back for our class reunions. He certainly be missed here, too.

David Reed

Mattoon, Illinois

In Loving Memory

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