Billy Lee Wilson, 91, of Odessa, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the love of his family.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 17, 2026, at Greenton Baptist Church, 9345 Greenton Rd., Odessa, MO 64076. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church, with interment in Greenton Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Greenton Baptist Church. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
Billy was born on February 16, 1935, in Wellington, Missouri, to William and Vera (Sellmeyer) Wilson. He graduated from Wellington High School and proudly served his country in the Missouri National Guard.
On November 24, 1954, Billy was united in marriage to the love of his life, Genevie Lang, in Lexington, Missouri. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and faith. Genevie preceded him in death on September 15, 2023, after nearly 69 years of marriage.
Billy dedicated many years of service to General Motors at the Leeds Plant before retiring. Never one to stay idle, he and Genevie later moved to the lake, where he began a second career with the Camdenton School District as a custodian, eventually retiring again. He was a devoted member of Greenton Baptist Church and was also active in U.A.W. Local 31, Lexington Masonic Lodge #149, and the Order of the Eastern Star.
Billy found his greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life-spending time with his family and friends, casting a line while fishing, hunting in the outdoors, tending to his garden, and enjoying the beauty of nature. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his quiet kindness, the deep love he had for those around him, and his unwavering love for God and the faith that guided every aspect of his life.
He is survived by his two daughters, Diana (Clarence) Payne of Wellington, Missouri, and Penny (Scott) Schumaker of Wellington, Missouri; six grandchildren, Billy Wilson, Jeremy Hayes, Lindsay LaBella, Lana Ryun, Jessica Schumaker, and Leslee Strohman; eleven great-grandchildren; as well as many extended family members and dear friends.
In addition to his parents and beloved wife, Billy was preceded in death by his daughter, Tammy Hannsz, his granddaughter, Theresa Brooke, and his great-grandson, Jaiden “Chance” Houston; and two sons-n-law, Pete LaBella and Jerry Hannsz.
Billy’s life was a testament to love, faith, and dedication, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
