Monday, the Thrillville Thrillbillies learned that 23-year-old catcher Virgil “Ashton” Smith had been found dead in his home. The Du Quoin native had a history of battling seizures.
The team met and voted to play Monday night’s game against the Alton River Dragons, in honor of Smith. Once Alton arrived at the ballpark, however, the River Dragons decided to forfeit the game to the Thrillbillies, in honor of Smith.
The Thrillbillies additionally postponed their Tuesday road game against the O’Fallon Hoots. Their next game is in Quincy against the Gems Thursday night.
The Thrillbillies are 25-19 in their inaugural season, 15-14 in conference. They have 11 games remaining in the year.
Funeral services will be at 2 P.M., Sunday July 30, 2023 at Du Quoin High School’s Auxiliary Gym. Visitation will be from 11 A.M. until 2 P.M. the same day.
Smith will be buried in the I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Du Quoin.
