Billy Leroy Wright, 85

Billy “Bill” Leroy Wright, age 85 of Ozark, died April 11, 2012.  He was born Feb. 12, 1927 in Dupot, Ill., the son of Barney and Lydia (Stafford) Wright.

Bill served his country in the U.S. Army, doing two tours in Europe during World War II.

After the war he worked as a mechanic in his service garage where he made many friends.  Bill enjoyed fishing and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved vacationing with his dearest friends, Lee and Etta Brown.

Survivors include three children, Brenda Cameron, Ozark, Jeannie Miller, Ava, and Mike Wright and wife, Marlene, Springfield; a stepdaughter, Cathy Mincks and husband, Billy, Sparta; a stepson, Ricky Wright, Ozark; 15 grandchildren, Bradley, Michael, Daniel, Tim, Jason, Michael Jr., Kyle, Matthew, Carmen, Larry, Bobbie, Crystal, Missy, Todd and Shaun; 20 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Jim and Herbert “Blondie” Wright; many cousins; and nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Vera; a daughter Sandy; a son, Billy; his other siblings; a grandson, Chad Lee; a great-grandson, Brady Lee; and sons-in-law, Joe Pete Miller and Gary Lee.

A graveside service with full military honors was held at 1 p.m. Wednesday in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens, Springfield, under direction of Adams Funeral Home, Ozark, with Pastor Gary Jennings officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Springfield Victory Mission or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.