Bill Davis

Bill Davis, 81, of Ozark, passed away September 1, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Bill was born January 15, 1945, in Highlandville, Missouri, to Neal and Opal (Tennis) Davis.

Hard work wasn't just something Bill did; it was part of who he was. He believed that if something was worth doing, it was worth doing right. Those who knew and loved him might add that “right” often meant Bill's way. He was strong-willed, honest and direct, and you never had to wonder what he was thinking. But he was also incredibly wise, and if you needed help, Bill was someone you could count on.

He began his career as a construction lineman before joining White River Valley Electric, where he worked his way from lineman to Operations Manager. His career with White River spanned approximately 40 years, but retirement didn’t end his commitment to the cooperative. He later served on its Board of Directors, continuing to share the knowledge and experience he had gained throughout his career.

Bill spent much of his “free time” building houses, including the home where he and Mary raised their family and continued to live. He could build just about anything and especially loved making furniture. Bill loved everything about the outdoors and spent as much time as he could hunting or fishing.

One of the best stories of Bill's life began when a young traveling lineman walked into a restaurant and met a waitress named Mary Spicknall. They married November 12, 1966, and this November would have marked their 60th wedding anniversary.

He and Mary shared the kind of love that can only be seen in a lifetime spent together. Their nearly 60 years together were truly a love story.

He was tremendously proud of his family, especially being a grandfather and great grandfather.

Of all the things Bill accomplished, built and worked for during his 81 years, his family was what mattered most. He loved having everyone together, and some of the best memories of him will simply be of those times.

Bill is survived by his wife, Mary Davis of Ozark; his children, LeRoy Davis of Ozark and Laura Gates and husband Noah of Ozark; his grandchildren, Cody Davis and wife McKayla of Ozark, Lacey Buster and husband Colton of Ozark, Noah Gates, Jr. and wife Olivia of Ozark, and Lexi Gates of Ozark; and his great-grandson, Deegan Buster of Ozark.

He is also survived by his siblings, Barbara Beesley and husband Bob of Tulsa, Kay Matthews and husband P.R. of Ozark, Lois Beaver and husband Joe of Marionville, Shirley Ghan and husband Ron of Ozark, Mary Elliott and husband Wayne of Marionville, Gary Davis and wife Donna of Marionville, and Patsy Cogsdill of Republic; and sister-in-law Kim Davis of Ozark.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Neal and Opal Davis, and his brother, Neal Wayne Davis.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Nurse Emily for the kindness, compassion, and care she gave Bill during his final days.

A special thank you also goes to Bill's sister, Shirley, and partner in crime, Ron, who became whatever he needed them to be. Nurse, barber, chauffeur, and so much more, they were always there when he needed them.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 4, 2026, at Jones-Chastain Cemetery in Ozark, under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Ozark, with Pastor Buddy Dockum officiating.