John William "Bill" Moss

It is with much sadness that the family of John William “Bill” Moss share of his passing on June 28, 2025, in Springfield, Missouri. He was 100 years and 11 months of age. He was surrounded by his loved ones. He was born July 23, 1924, in Zora, Missouri, on the Osage River in Morgan County. He was the son of John H. and Martha V. Messersmith Moss. On August 19, 1946, he married Martha Jean Miller in Tipton, Missouri, who survives of the home. Upon graduating from Versailles High School in 1943, Bill enlisted in the United States Maritime Service, Merchant Marines and proudly served during WWII in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Mediterranean war zones. After returning home from his military enlistment, he and Martha married and began their marriage journey in Denver, Colorado. While in Denver, he worked for the Ford Motor Company. In 1951, the young family returned to Tipton and he began working as a meat salesman for the Miller Packing Plant. It was here in Tipton, that Bill and Martha raised their family and made it their home for over 65 years. Bill was successful in many occupations during his working career. He was well remembered and respected as he operated the Standard Oil bulk truck, delivering fuel oil and gas to the surrounding area. In 1965, he became the MFA/Shelter Insurance agent until his retirement in 1992. Bill enjoyed selling real estate for over 50 years as he was a licensed agent in the state of Missouri. Bill was very active in the community of Tipton. He was a charter member and past president of the Tipton Country Club as well as president and treasurer of the Lion’s Club. He served on the Tipton City Council. He was also a deacon of the First Christian Church in Tipton. Surviving of the home in Springfield, Missouri, is his wife, Martha of 79 years; his children, Lynne Spillars (Dale), Nelson, Missouri, Gary Moss (Nadine) Springfield, Missouri and Tami Duch (Larry) of Wamego, Kansas. His life would not be complete without his pride and joy of 9 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by sister-in-law, Loretta Colantonio, Marquette, Michigan, and brother-in-law, Bob Miller (Judy) of Paola, Kansas. Many loving and attentive nieces and nephews complete his family circle. Bill was the baby of 9 children of which all his siblings have preceded him in death. His family was an important part of his life. He enjoyed playing golf at various courses in Missouri and while traveling. He followed the St. Louis Cardinals and Mizzou football. He was very hard to beat in a game of pitch! He enjoyed the newspaper especially the Kansas City Star. He was an avid follower of the stock market, faithfully checking it every day even up to his final days. He and Martha spent the winters in Arizona for more than 20 years. In 2017, they relocated to Springfield from Tipton. He will be deeply missed by so many. Funeral services will be held at 11:30, Thursday, July 10, 2025 at the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home in Versailles. Graveside services and interment with full military honors will follow in the Versailles Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Your caring thoughts and favorite memories will fill the hearts of the family, but if desired, memorials may be made to the Versailles Cemetery or to a personal choice. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.

John William "Bill" Moss

July 23, 1924 - June 28, 2025

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John William "Bill" Moss

July 23, 1924 - June 28, 2025

About Us

What We Do

Contact KG/Locations

Grief & Healing

Plan Ahead

Obituaries

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