Wilma June Acuff

Wilma June Acuff, lovingly known to family and friends as “Bill,” passed away peacefully at home on January 14, 2025, at the age of 87. She was born on November 8, 1937, in Brookville, IL, and spent her life in Savanna, IL, where she built a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

The proud matriarch of her family and fondly described as the “ringleader of our family circus,” Bill brought joy and warmth to all those around her. She began her career as a beautician, working out of her home while raising her children. Her salon was not only a place for beauty but also a gathering space, where her children entertained clients as they waited. Once her children started school, she transitioned to working at Savanna State Bank, where she became a valued member of the local community.

Wilma shared 68 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, Robert L. Acuff, a testament to their enduring bond and commitment to each other.

Throughout her retirement, Bill stayed active, enjoying bowling and countless happy days on the golf course with her husband and the ladies league at Palisades Golf Course. Her church family at Community United Church of Christ held a special place in her heart, and she found deep meaning in her time spent with them.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert L. Acuff, and her beloved siblings, Barbara Trousdale (Stan), Donna Grimm (John), and Paula Brown (Rob). Bill leaves behind her three children: Jeffrey L. Acuff, Linda J. Acuff, and Sherri L. Handke (Brian), who will forever treasure her memory. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren: Emily Molina (Ryan), Michael Colley, David Colley, Patrick Acuff, Jennifer Acuff, Bobby Acuff, Braden Handke (Jessica), and Cassidy Bax (Taylor), as well as her great-grandchildren: Kate Colley, Ella Colley, Lillian Colley, Ava Colley, Lydia Acuff, Hayden Acuff, Dylan Acuff, Cash Molina, Axel Fischer, Cheyenne Fischer, Kaden Handke, Emersyn Handke, Hayes Handke, Kennedy Bax, and Kamden Bax.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Axel and Elsie Larsen, and her siblings, Doris, Karen, and Donald.

Memorial donations may be made in Wilma’s honor to Community United Church of Christ.

Visitation will be held at Community United Church of Christ from noon to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025, with the funeral service immediately following.