It is with great sadness that I report Bill Darnell--father, husband, and officer with the DeWitt Police Department--passed away on November 4, 2020, 12 days after coming down with symptoms of COVID-19. This GoFundMe has been established by a family friend to support his widow, Ellie Darnell, in caring for their three children, Dominique, Craig, and Duncan. Billy and Ellie are pillars of our community in their work and free time, but now it is our time to step up to help the Darnell family.

From Ellie:

It’s with extreme sadness that I let you know that we lost Billy today. He contracted Covid and 12 days later he is gone. We had been so careful because we knew this could happen to anyone. The kids and I are in total shock and honestly can’t believe it yet. I am so grateful he thought to do these pictures in June. It gave us a special memory to celebrate our girl. I am so blessed to have been his wife. He has been my cheerleader and pumped me up when I didn’t know how I could do something. I am grateful for the life we created and the family we made. I will post information as we figure it out. I am trying to get healthy myself right now and while we would love and hugs - we are focusing on staying healthy right now. Please just wear a mask - I have worn one for over a week nonstop.

UPDATE:

Local news organizations have produced some phenomenal reporting on Bill's career and passing. You can view the WLNS report by clicking here and the WILX report by clicking here.