William Dean "Bill" Embry

William Dean “Bill” Embry passed away peacefully on the morning of December 10, 2025, at his home in Cotton, Missouri, surrounded by family. He was born October 4, 1948, to William Ralph Embry and Eileen Faye Pulley Hall Embry of Cotton, Missouri. Bill wore many hats throughout his life and took great pride in each role he served. First and foremost, he was an auctioneer for 55 years, working alongside his long-time friend and partner, Jim Pettigrew, as they built Embry & Pettigrew Auction Service. In later years, Bill was joined in the auction business by his sons, Kent and John, creating a legacy that carried forward to the next generation. In the early 1980s, Bill hosted his outdoor radio program, Bill Embry Outdoors, on KZMO Radio in California, Missouri, where he shared his passion for the outdoors with listeners for five years. Bill also spent many years as a racetrack announcer—first for Woody Carpenter, and later for Freddie Homan—at the California track for a total of 12 years, including two seasons at the State Fair Motor Speedway. His voice became a familiar sound to many who attended races throughout the region. From 2004 to 2008, Bill proudly served one term as Cooper County Commissioner. He was a past president and long-time member of the Missouri Steam Engine Association in Boonville. A horseman through and through, Bill owned and drove what he fondly declared were “the best damn draft horses this side of the Mississippi!” His love for horses remained one of his most defining passions. Bill was also a long-time member of the California Eagles #4027. He worked 27 years for the Missouri Department of Corrections, from 1974 until his retirement in 2003. On April 27, 1968, Bill married the love of his life, Lois Evelyn “Hodges” Embry. The two shared 57 years of marriage and built a life rich with family, friendship, and hard work. Bill was most proud of his sons for following in his footsteps as auctioneers and horsemen, continuing the family tradition he cherished deeply. Bill is survived by his wife, Lois, of the home; and by his sons, William Kent Embry and Carla Rene Meyer of Clarksburg, Missouri, and John Bradley Embry and wife Stacey Ann “Bolton” Embry of Versailles, Missouri. Bill was blessed with five grandchildren, Brooke Higgins (Devin) of Clarksburg, MO, Addison Embry (Caleb) of Eldon, MO, Aubrey Embry (Carter) of Clarksburg, MO, Ashlee Schlichte Embry (David) of Springfield, MO and Lauren Embry (Jordan) of Chicago, IL. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Kinley and Lace Higgins of Clarksburg, MO. Bill is further survived by his brother Mark Embry (Kelli) of New Bloomfield, MO, and his nieces and nephews, Walker Embry (Kellan) of Portland, OR and Sydney Embry & daughter Kahlaya. Memorial services will be Sunday, December 14th at 3:00 p.m. and welcoming guests from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. for a celebration of life at the California Eagles #4027, 314 North High Street, California, Missouri 65018. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.

William Dean "Bill" Embry

October 4, 1948 - December 10, 2025

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William Dean "Bill" Embry

October 4, 1948 - December 10, 2025

About Us

What We Do

Contact KG/Locations

Grief & Healing

Plan Ahead

Obituaries

Resources

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