Illinois General Assembly - Full Text of SR0441

SR0441 LRB104 15590 MST 28757 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Arthur S. "Art" Oakford of Peoria, who passed away on September 26, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Art Oakford was an Eagle Scout at heart; his values for all aspects of his life were based on the Boy Scout laws: To be Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent; and

WHEREAS, Art Oakford's values formed the foundation of his family life and guided his parenting style, raising his daughters with love and an expectation to give to others, and for the grandchildren, "Gramp's Camps" created special memories for all; and

WHEREAS, Art Oakford repelled down a building in a Superman shirt in 2017 at the age of 86 to help raise money for one of his favorite organizations, the Peoria Friendship House of Christian Service; he could often be found cycling the streets of Peoria; and

WHEREAS, Art Oakford was a devoted family man, a pillar in the Peoria community, and a quiet philanthropist; and

WHEREAS, Art Oakford was preceded in death by his wife of over 68 years, Judy, and his daughters, Kitty Miller, Susan Champion, and Lynne Anderson; and

WHEREAS, Art Oakford is survived by his daughter, Betsy (Tom) Hamilton; his brother, Dick (Carmen) Oakford; his sister, Mary Jo Smith; his sons-in-law, Steve Anderson and Mike Champion; nine grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Arthur S. "Art" Oakford and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Art Oakford as an expression of our deepest sympathy.