James Killion Day 2026 Draws Strong Community Support in Alton

ALTON - The James Killion Beautification & Enhancement Committee and volunteers made James Killion Day 2026 on Saturday, May 23, 2026, "a rousing success," organizers said afterward.

The event at James Killion Park in Alton for a pre-Memorial Day celebration honored the legacy of James Killion Jr. It highlighted a youth-focused theme: “It’s All About the Children — Invest in Them Now.”

The all-day event Saturday included an afternoon ceremony from 1 to 3 p.m. and an evening community concert from 6 to 8 p.m., according to the committee. Attendees were encouraged to bring school supplies and donations payable to the Boys & Girls Club of Alton.

Alton Mayor David Goins also proclaimed May 23, 2026, as James Killion Day at the Park.

“The James Killion Jr. Day Celebration at Killion Park was a rousing success,” the mayor said. “It was an honor to once again present a proclamation on behalf of the City of Alton to the Killion family and his grandchildren.”

❮ ❯

Sheila Goins, chair of the Killion Day event, said the James Killion Commissioners were “extremely pleased” with the success of the James Killion Day Celebration, which honors the late James Killion Jr., whom organizers identified as the first African American man to enlist in the United States Army from Alton.

“The event beautifully reflected his lasting legacy, commitment to community, and love for children and families,” Goins said.

Sheila Goins said this year’s theme, “The Children Are Our Future — Invest In Them Now,” was requested by the Killion family.

“The commissioners proudly made children the focus of the entire program,” she said. “From prayers and performances to songs and dances, the youth were at the heart of the celebration. Retired Judge Duane Bailey delivered an inspiring keynote address that included participation from his grandchildren, further emphasizing the importance of investing in future generations.”

School supplies donated by the Killion family and neighbors of James Killion Park will be distributed to the Boys & Girls Club of Alton, Goins said. She also said NCNW youth volunteers played an important role throughout the day.

Retired Judge Duane Bailey served as the keynote speaker. The committee described him as “widely respected throughout the region for his years of service, leadership, and dedication to the community as a retired Madison County Judge.”

The afternoon ceremony provided "an inspiring afternoon of fellowship, recognition, community pride, and reflection honoring the Killion family legacy,” the committee said.

More like this:

Alton Event Honors James Killion Jr. With Youth Focus

May 22, 2026

Alton Police Step Up Enforcement in City Parks

5 days ago

Alton Police Charge One In Alleged Killion Park Shooting

May 3, 2026

Hundreds of Jeeps to Cruise Historic Route 66 During Route 66 Centennial Celebration

2 days ago

Jesse Prather Jr. Remembered for Resilience and Talent in Alton

Jan 21, 2026