William Lee “Bill” Nickell, 71, of Richmond, passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at North Care Hospice House in North Kansas City.
William was born on August 20, 1954, in Kansas City, Kansas, the son of Otho and Juanita (Voehl) Nickell, Jr. He was united in marriage to Donna K. Jones of Excelsior Springs; she preceded him in death on July 22, 2005.
Survivors include: two sons, William David Nickell of Richmond and William Joseph Nickell of Warrensburg; step son, Dustin Aaron Nickell of Lexington; daughter, Katrina Marie (Darby) Roach of St Joseph; 9 grandchildren, Stormie Roach, Alexandria Nickell, Makayla Nickell, Mayci Nickell, Isaac Roach, Elizabeth Nickell, Zachary Nickell, Liam Nickell, Levi Nickell; one great great grandson, Jasper Bloss; 2 sisters, Connie Nickell of Rayville and Mary Reynolds of Richmond; brother in law, Ronnie Walker of Richmond.
He was preceded in death by parents, wife, grandson, Allen Roach, and sister Pamela Walker.
William was raised and educated in Richmond and graduated from Richmond High School. His work history included working in manufacturing at Gates Rubber in Excelsior Springs and then at Henkle in Richmond as a tool and die operator. His pastimes included hunting, fishing, trapping, and playing solitaire. A deeply spiritual man who loved and enjoyed his family.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Children’s Mercy Hospital. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.
Cremation with celebration of life and inurnment at a later date. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of arrangements. Please remember to share your memories of William with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
