John Francis Lillis

John Francis Lillis, 81, of Williamsburg, IA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 30th, 2026 at Compass Memorial Hospital in Marengo. He was a devoted husband, father, grandpa, and community leader.

He was born November 13, 1944, the son of James John & Clarrita Ellen (O’Rourke) Lillis Jr. He grew up in Williamsburg and graduated from Williamsburg High School in 1962. On July 10, 1965, John was united in marriage to Judith Ann Logan in Melrose, Iowa. The couple welcomed three children: Jim, Dan, and Dave. His family was always the most important thing in John’s life.

John owned and operated Lillis Insurance Agency in Williamsburg for over 50 years. He was passionate about insurance and was a respected industry leader in the state of Iowa. In October of 2023, he was inducted into the Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame. He served as a volunteer fireman for 18 years serving as Assistant Fire Chief and Fire Chief; was on the Williamsburg Planning and Zoning Commission for 50 years including 43 years as Chairman. He was a member of the Lions Club and Knights of Columbus (Fourth Degree Member) for over 50 years. He ran the “chain gang” for the Williamsburg High School football team for 20 years. John has helped many community members “behind the scenes” never seeking recognition, or even a thank you. He cared deeply for the betterment of his home community of Williamsburg.

John was a devout Catholic and very proud of his Irish heritage. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Williamsburg and held season football tickets to the Iowa Hawkeyes for over 35 years, attending almost every home game. He and Judy enjoyed traveling and visiting places all over the world. John was an avid boater and enjoyed riding his Harley. He also thrived in his role as “Papa” to his grandchildren.

He is survived by his children Jim (Gail) Lillis of Buffalo Grove, Illinois, Dan (Cheryl) Lillis of Williamsburg and Dave (Claire) Lillis of St. Louis, Missouri; Nine grandchildren including Dr. Katie Seaman, Logan Rolles, Erin Lillis, Sarah Lillis, Megan Lillis, Adeline Lillis, John (Charlie) Lillis, Joe Lillis and Catherine Lillis; a sister Roseann Williams; a brother Terry (Joyce) Lillis; a brother-in-law Jerry Moen; a sister-in-law Kathleen Lillis and numerous nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Judy in 2024; brothers Steve and Bill Lillis; sisters Kathleen McKeen and Mary Clare Moen; and a brothers-in-law Dick McKeen and Jarvis “Bud” Williams.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for: Williamsburg Fire Department, Knights of Columbus and Give Til It Hurts.

The rosary will be said for John at 3:30 PM followed by a visitation from 4-7 PM on Thursday August 6th at Powell Funeral Home in Williamsburg.

The funeral service will begin at 10AM on Friday August 7th at St Mary’s Catholic Church, followed by a burial service at St Mary’s Catholic Cemetery and a luncheon for friends and family at Stone Creek Golf Club.