Billy Gene Neff

Billy Gene Neff, 93, of Sedalia, Missouri, passed away on August 20, 2025, in Sedalia. Born on November 3, 1931, in Smithton, Missouri, Billy lived a long and meaningful life marked by service, hard work, and a deep commitment to his family and community.

Billy proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army during the Korean War from 1952 to 1960. He was a member of the 245th Tank Battalion and remained deeply proud of his military service throughout his life. His dedication to veterans' causes continued through his active membership in VFW Post 2591, American Legion Post 520, and the 40 & 8 Voiture 333. In accordance with his wishes and love for his country, he will be laid to rest at the VA Cemetery in Higginsville, Missouri, at a later time.

A man of remarkable work ethic and integrity, Billy dedicated over five decades of his life to Missouri Public Service as a gasman. Known for his reliability and skill, he worked tirelessly - even taking on multiple jobs at times - to support those around him. Alongside Floyd Thomason, he spent countless nights and weekends installing furnaces and responding to emergency calls. Even into his later years, Billy could vividly recall many of those service calls that defined much of his career. He also ventured into entrepreneurship with his wife, Shirley, when they owned a grocery store in Florence, Missouri.

Billy's generosity and humility left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Though he often claimed he wasn't perfect, those around him saw a man full of honor and pride who found joy in helping others. Whether through small acts of kindness or larger commitments like volunteering for many years at the Missouri State Fair - where he loved greeting visitors - Billy made it a point to give back to his community.

He had a deep appreciation for country music and found peace in fishing trips or tinkering with tools in his spare time. A passionate Kansas City Chiefs fan, Billy never missed a game - though he wasn't shy about voicing frustration with referees when calls didn't go their way. He also enjoyed sharing stories from his childhood with his grandchildren, creating cherished memories that will live on through generations.

Billy was involved in numerous organizations throughout his life. He was a former member of the Missouri State Fair Foundation and First Methodist Church in Sedalia. As a union member of IBEW and an active participant in the Pettis County Landlord Association through ownership of several rental homes, Billy remained engaged in both professional and civic circles well into retirement.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Merk Neff; sons William Neff (Amy) of Mulvane, Kansas; Dr. Jody Neff (Heidi) of Derby, Kansas; Kenny Neff (Julia) of Overland Park, Kansas; step-son, Tony Merk (Debra)of Warsaw, Missouri; step-daughter, Tina Merk Hart (Brady) of Kansas City, Missouri; along many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Billy was preceded in death by his father, Charles E. Neff; mother, Irma I. Hoehns Neff; stepmother, Ada Neff; brother, CD Neff; first wife, Nellie Bauer; and second wife, Judy Barnard.

Billy Gene Neff leaves behind a legacy rooted in service - to country, family, friends, and community. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Candace Fowler officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 5:00 p.m., one hour prior to the service.

Full military honors will be presented by the United States Army and Sedalia VFW Post #2591. In addition, the Sedalia 40&8 Voiture 333 will conduct a memorial tribute in his honor, with support from the Patriot Guard Riders.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributes to the Wounded Warriors Project in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.