William A. Hickerson (Dr. Swing), 84, of Springfield passed away on July 7, 2025, at home with his family after a lengthy illness of sinus nasal cancer. Dr. Swing was born on November 6, 1940 in Burlington, Iowa, the son of Dr. Robert Hickerson Sr. and Mary Jean Hickerson, with the family later settling in Galesburg, IL. He attended the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired in Jacksonville for his early education, followed by Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, and Sangamon State University in Springfield where he earned a BA in Sociology. He married Donna Conway Miller in 1992, later preceding him in death in 2018.

He shared his love and vast knowledge of music across the radio airways for over 40 years. His programs included Jazz Tonight and Mulligan Stew on WSSR FM Sangamon State University and University of Illinois, The Bill Hickerson Show on WVEM FM, Strike Up the Band on WTAX AM, Swing that Music on WQNA FM, and Swing that Music streaming live from his home Studio H. He was involved with the Central Illinois Jazz Society and was fortunate to have interviewed many recording artists through the years, including Count Basie, Tony Bennett, Steve Allen, Dizzy Gillespie, Mel Torme, Dave Brubek, Doc Severinsen and Tiny Tim.

He was the consummate entertainer, often hosting robust live and recorded music parties with his wife, and most recently at Dr. Swing's piano bar in his home. Bill was a gifted pianist, often hired for parties and receptions. He found great joy in sharing his talents as a volunteer also, playing for local senior homes and at the Illinois State Fair. He was the King of one liners, limericks, and jokes; never missing an opportunity to sing his original song "Hominy Grits."   He loved playing golf, cards, pool, bicycling, bowling (12 strikes in a row once), boating and fishing from his jon boat on "beautiful Lake Springfield."  He loved young children of friends and family, leaving lasting memories through creative homemade games, including an unbelievable left-handed 3-point basketball hook shot that was amazing to watch. He especially loved his two great grandchildren, who brought tremendous joy to him up until his final days.

Bill was truly a remarkable man and was admired and respected by all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.  The family would like to thank his wonderful friends and neighbors who became his chosen family, for their unwavering support and friendship in good times and tough times. The tremendous care and dedication that Bill received from Dr. Dana Crosby, her staff and residents at SIU Medicine ENT, can only be described as extraordinary, helping Bill live a productive and enjoyable life during his battles with cancer.

He is survived by his best friend Lucy, loving daughters Becky Jane (Jim) Schlouch of Springfield, IL and Pauline Miller of Atlanta, GA; three grandchildren, Sam Schlouch of Chicago, IL, Ben (Kelly) Schlouch of Normal, IL and Kate (Austin) Trentman of Erlanger, KY; great grandchildren Phinley Schlouch and Eli Schlouch of Normal, IL; two siblings Dr. Robert Hickerson Jr. of Knoxville, IL and Patricia Kunz of Shalimar, FL, and several nieces and nephews.

Vancil-Murphy Funeral Home accorded cremation rites. The family will host a Celebration of Life gathering at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to:
Springfield Noon Lions Club Foundation
Students Can See Program
P.O. Box 5441
Springfield, Illinois 62705-5441

University of Illinois Foundation (UIF)
Music Fund/ Community Music School
Division of Advancement
One University Plaza
PAC 591
Springfield, Illinois 62703-5407