Willie "Bill" Neal Richards, 65, of Mattoon, passed away July 10, 2011 at 5:23 pm in St. John's Hospital in Springfield.  He was born February 22, 1946 in Olney, Illinois, the son of Harry and Mary vanBlaracum Richards.  He married Linda Murphy on June 18, 1982 in Taylorville.  He worked as a mechanic for over 40 years and was the retired owner of Commercial Alignment in Mattoon.  Mr. Richards served in the Army during the Vietnam conflict and was a member of the VFW, Moose, and Eagles in Mattoon.  He enjoyed golfing and fishing.

He is survived by his wife Linda Richards of Mattoon, step daughter, Corinna Hicks, husband Richard of Sullivan; 3 granddaughters, 4 great grandchildren; brothers, Larry (Beverly) Richards Sullivan, Harry Lee (Monica) Richards Decatur and Ray (Kathy) Richards of Taylorville; numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at 11:00 am in McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Seth Ventress officiating.  Visitation will be held from 10 am until 11 am Wednesday, July 13, 2011.  Mr. Richards will be cremated following the funeral and inurnment will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be sent online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services is handling of arrangements.