Joe A. Zills Obituary (1948

Joe A. Zills, 75 of Springfield passed away at his home, surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, October 19, 2023 after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He was born May 22, 1948 in Decatur, Alabama the son of Albert Joshua and Evelyn Ruth (Moore) Zills. Joe was raised in Stevenson, AL where he attended school then joined the United States Navy. After serving four years, Joe made his home in Illinois and began a career with Illinois Bell, retiring after 32 years. He then joined Landmarc Environmental Systems for 8 years, and later on to Gutteridge, Haskins & Davey, an engineering firm based in Australia to which Joe traveled and loved before retiring from this firm. Upon retirement, Joe enjoyed golfing, bowling and traveling with Chris, his significant other of 17 years. He loved helping Chris on her farm where the two of them labored countless days and hours to create "The Trails", a beautiful nature trail in which Joe cleared trees and land for the mile long walking trail with every crook and turn being named and identified by a handmade sign complete with animal artwork drawn by Joe. He was very proud of "The Trails" and the huge accomplishment that he and Chris together had made to enjoy for years to come. Joe is survived by his significant other, Christina Conrad of Auburn, son Daniel Joseph Zills of Dundee, IL; daughter Amanda Jean (Matt) Loyd of Foristell, Missouri; grandchildren Haley Zills, Ella, Leni and Shay Loyd; great grandson Nico Zills; sister Suzanne Richards of Kimball, Tennessee; special family Gregory (Erica) Conrad of Springfield and their children Alleigh, Levi, Titus and Judah. Joe was preceded in death by his parents and sister Shirley Warren. Private family services will be held on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at Airsman & Calvert Funeral Home in Virden with Reverend Steve Gocking officiating. Burial will follow at Virden Cemetery with Military Honors conducted by Virden American Legion Post #386. Memorials are suggested and may be made to Virden Church of the Nazarene and will be accepted by Airsman & Calvert Funeral Homes, Virden who is honored to be caring for Joe's family.