Billy Joe Farris

Billy Joe Farris, 83, of Sullivan, MO, known affectionately by friends and family as Bill, passed away on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Missouri Baptist Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Born on September 4, 1941, in Bourbon, MO, to William and Georgia (Enloe) Farris, Bill was a man whose life was defined by dedication, love, and the joy he found in simple pleasures.

Bill grew up in the close-knit community of Cuba, MO, where he attended the local schools and laid the foundations of a life marked by hard work and perseverance. His early entry into the grocery business was the start of a lifelong career. Beginning at a local store in Cuba, Bill's work ethic and natural leadership led him to Frick's Market in Sullivan. Over the years, he became a fixture of the community, serving in various roles and eventually rising to the position of assistant manager. After a rewarding 40-year career, Bill retired, leaving behind a legacy of loyalty and service.

Bill was blessed with fatherhood as a young man to his first two children, Crystal and Sheldon.  On August 9, 1975, Bill married the love of his life, Rhonda Cottrell. Their union was blessed with two sons, Jeremy and Jared. Bill was a devoted father who loved and was very dedicated to his children. The family made their home in Sullivan, where Bill and Rhonda nurtured a warm and loving environment for their boys to grow up in.

Bill's life was characterized by his love for his family and his passion for sports. An active figure on the sidelines, he took immense pride in coaching his boys in baseball, imparting lessons of teamwork and sportsmanship. An avid outdoorsman, Bill cherished the times spent hunting and fishing, embracing the beauty of nature and the thrill of the chase. His loyalty to his favorite teams, the Cardinals and the Chiefs, was unwavering, and he enjoyed watching games with friends and family, sharing in the highs and lows of each season.

Perhaps what Bill loved most was the time spent with his family, especially watching his grandchildren play sports. He was their biggest fan, always there to celebrate their victories and encourage them through their defeats. His presence at their games was a source of comfort and inspiration, and his support helped shape their young lives.

Those who knew Bill will remember him as a kind and selfless man. His interesting conversations, filled with wit and wisdom, will be missed by many. Bill had the rare ability to make everyone feel important, listening intently and offering advice when needed. His selflessness was evident in every aspect of his life, always putting others before himself and going out of his way to help anyone in need.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Rhonda of Sullivan, MO; his four children: Crystal Farris of Bourbon, MO, Sheldon Farris and significant other, Christina Helderle of Fenton, MO, Jeremy Farris and wife, Dawn, and Jared Farris and wife, Jessica, all of Sullivan, MO; 6 grandchildren: Dustin Farris and wife, Maddie of Georgetown, TX, Kelsey Rogers and Austin Farris of Sullivan, MO, Anthony Diestelkamp and wife, Tia of Owensville, MO, Ross Farris and significant other, Haley Wagner & Lauren Farris all of Sullivan, MO; 7 great-grandchildren: Addyson, Natalie, Niklaus, Grayson, Willow, Sailor, & Liam; sister-in-law Cleta Green and husband Dan, brother-in-law, Doug Contrell and special friend Jennifer Bayless; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William & Georgia Farris; two brothers: James Farris and Robert Farris; one sister, Suzie Farris; and his parents-in-law, Vencil and Alline Cottrell; brothers-in-law, Buck Martin and Jim Cottrell and wife Jan; sister-in-law, Karen Wynn.

Services will be 11:00 AM, Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at the Eaton Funeral Home with Pastor Duncan Skiles officiating.  Burial will follow at the Steelville Cemetery, Steelville, MO.

Visitation will be 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at the Eaton Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Kidney Foundation.

Friends may send their online condolences to Bill’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com

All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan.