William Julian Povolish's Obituary
William “ Julian Povolish, 70, passed away on April 20, 2025, in St. Petersburg, Florida. He was born on August 25, 1954, to the late Leo Joseph and Gertrude Catherine (Kuberski) Povolish of Swanwick, Illinois.
He graduated from Pinckneyville High School in 1972 and earned a Bachelor of Church Ministry from The Sure Foundation Theological Institute in 2005.
"Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see you sick, or in prison, and come to You? And the King will answer and say to them, assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.” This quote from Jesus so embodies the life Bill lived as a wholehearted follower of Jesus Christ his Lord and Savior. From his initial salvation experience as a teenager, Bill began faithfully ministering to those in need of good news. In coffee shops, on the streets, in nursing homes, within his own family, in adult and children's Bible studies, at county fairs – wherever there were people -- you could find Bill releasing the unconditional love of Jesus, tirelessly and compassionately pouring out to meet whatever need he could, serving the least of these. Bill was actively involved in an outreach ministry, the Godmobile, for many years, praying with hundreds of people who received Jesus as their personal Savior. He was a soul winner who loved to share his faith! Even on Christmas morning, Bill could be found preaching the good news and feeding the homeless and poor sleeping on the streets of Seattle. Most recently, Bill functioned not only as an evangelist but a pastor, presenting Sunday morning services to the elderly and shut-ins. If he wasn't studying for his message, he was transporting these friends to the doctor, the drugstore, or perhaps the grocery store. Everyone else's needs came before his own time and time again. Bill never shunned serving as Jesus instructed, even the least of these. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew him. Now he is enjoying his rewards in the Presence of his Heavenly Father, and the lineup of those coming to say thank you, for a life well-lived is, we are sure, quite long!
Bill is survived by his children, Christopher Joseph Povolish and Andrew David Povolish; his grandchildren, Nora Povolish, Mason Povolish, and Griffin Povolish, and his siblings (oldest to youngest), Louis Povolish, Barbara Gullett, Josephine Povolish, Clarence Povolish, Tom Povolish, and Irene Fournier. Preceding him in death are his parents, Leo and Gertrude, and siblings, Joanna Moore, and Theodore Povolish. He also leaves behind many cherished friends and extended family members.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 28, at 12:00 Noon at Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5750 49th Street North, St. Petersburg, Florida, 33709.
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