Mr. William Nash was born on July 11, 1925 in Charleston, Missouri. Born the third of four sons to Andrew and Cora Nash. William, as a baby, became affectionately known as "Fat" due to his lovable size. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings.

When Fat was very young, the Nash family relocated to Fireworks Station, IL, which later became the township of Centreville. A staple family in Centreville, the Nash family was heavily involved in the development of the township. That involvement was very influential on a young Fat. He attended school in the East St. Louis, IL District #189, which included attending the beloved Garrison Elementary School n Centreville. Along with his siblings, Richard (Dick), Archie (Arch), Sam (Buddy), Roy (Boog), and Callie, Fat grew up around love, community, history, and church.

At an early age, Fat became a member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church, where he grew up and served for over 85 years. For over 50 years, he served as President of the church Usher Board. His favorite scripture was Psalm 84:10 - "I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my GOD, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness." Fat also served as Church Treasurer for many years as well as a Church Trustee. He was a faithful member of the Male Chorus. His presence at St. John was profound, and many members looked up to him as a role model.

Fat was also a dedicated Usher serving in the Baptist General State Convention of Illinois and the National Baptist Convention, U.S.A. Inc. Over the years, many awards were bestowed upon Fat for leadership as an Usher and Church Leader. Those awards include the 2015 Baptist General State Convention of Illinois' The Deacon James Lucas Peace/Love President Award and the 2014 Usher Dedication Award from St. John Missionary Baptist Church. "The King of Ushers" and "The GodFather" were his earned names.

After a loving courtship, Fat married the love of his life, Maggie Mae Jackson, on February 9, 1957. To this union, a daughter, Lillie Deneen Nash was born. Fat devoted his life to his lovely wife and beautiful daughter. The epitome of a husband and father, Fat's love for his family was visible in every part of his life. Fat and Maggie were inseparable, and Deneen was his pride and joy. His grandchildren Gregory Eric, Kelsey, and Deven, as well as great-grandchildren Khamron and Layla, also brought much joy to "Pa Pa." He loved them immensely. His love for his family was enduring, including his nieces and nephews who were also his children.

Fat was a dedicated employee of District #189 for over 35 years, where he served as a Lead Member of the Custodial Team and retired in 1995. He also served as Union President, in which he passionately advocated for the rights of his colleagues. During his tenure, Fat was a true servant to Education. He influenced man staff members and children throughout his career with his loving Spirit and genuine heart. "Mr. Nash was very well known throughout the district, and his GODLY walk was evident. To this day, his name brings smiles and joy to many of his former students and adopted children.

Fat was loved by many, and he also reciprocated that love. From regularly occurring family gatherings to church, Fat was highly regarded as a man of integrity and pure kindness. He was a very giving man, and he always helped those who needed it. He selflessly gave to those he loved. Fat was a GODLY man, a humble servant, and a generous soul. He lived his life according to GOD'S word, and his daily walk demonstrated that life.

God called Fat home to be with Him in April 27, 2023. He will now reunite with his parents, Andrew and Cora Nash, and siblings Richard, Archie, Samuel, Roy, and Callie. He leaves to cherish his wonderful memory his wife, of 66 years, Maggie; his daughter, Lillie Deneen (Gregory); grandchildren, Gregory Eric (Jessica), Kelsey (Charles), and Deven; great-grandchildren, Khamron and Layla; sisters-in-law Olivia Willis, Portia Key, Lois Nash and Betty Jackson; godchildren, Solomon Hines, Jr. (great-nephew), Freddie Woodard (nephew), Harriet Lewis (niece), Gina M. Jackson (niece), Patricia Hines (niece), Carl Bowie, Reggie Brown, Gloria Jackson Glover, Derricka Glover, and Nikki Turner; lifelong friends, Bernice Howze and Buddy Murray, and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.