Harold Ray Bird, 92, of Decatur, formerly of Atwood, passed away on Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at home.

Visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2019 with a service to follow at 11 a.m. at the Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, 66 East Highway 36, Atwood, IL with Pastor Stephen Cantrell officiating. Burial will be at the Hammond Cemetery with military graveside rites accorded.

Harold was born October 17, 1926 in Weatherby, MO, to Daniel and Luceal Brown Bird. Harold graduated from Pattonsburg, MO High School and served in the US Army as a MP in Japan during World War II. The war ended as Harold was crossing the ocean in a troop ship headed for Japan. Harold was a graduate of the Hobart Welding School of Troy, OH and a graduate of Coyne Electrical School.

Harold worked 34 years at USI Chemical Company in Tuscola IL, retiring in 1991. Harold then joined the Free Will Baptist Church volunteer group, called Helping Hands and built or remodeled 29 churches across the United States and Mexico.

Harold married Marie Schaffer in September 28, 1948. They were married 62 years when she preceded him in death. Harold married Joan Stewart on June 11, 2011. She survives.

Harold is also survived by his children: Jim Bird of Farmington MO; Carol Skelley and husband Mark of Cerro Gordo, IL and Cindy Plummer and husband Larry of Arthur, IL. Harold had 11 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents; son: John Andrew Bird, brother: Daniel Gilbert Bird and sister: Emma Jean Bird.

Harold was dearly loved. He was the go-to guy if you had any electrical or mechanical problems. He was a quiet guy but had great presence. Rest in Peace, dear Heart – but know that you will always live in our hearts.

Thank you to the family and friends who made it possible for Harold to have Hospice Care at home.

Memorials are suggested to the Free Will Baptist Home Missions, Antioch, TN

Online condolences may be shared via hilligossshraderfh.com