A visitation will be held from 12-1:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 5, at Adams Funeral Home, Nixa. A graveside service will follow at 2 p.m. at Spokane Cemetery, under direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa.
Billy Joe Essick, 79, of Highlandville, died Jan. 1, 2019. He was born Dec. 1, 1940, in Springfield, the son of Rube and Maxine (Thomas) Essick.
On Oct. 3, 1958 he was united in marriage to Deborah (Gray), who preceded him in death on Jan. 29, 2016.
Survivors include: his children, Billy Joe Essick, Jr. and wife Christina, Lesa Moran and husband Joel and Mike Essick and wife Becky; grandchildren, Justin, Nathan, Caleb, Madison, Chloe, Haley, Shawn, Jordan, Megan, Courtney and Mark; 12 great grandchildren; a brother, Dick Essick and wife Carla; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Bill was retired from Burlington Northern Railroad. He enjoyed hunting and tending to cattle on the farm and traveling.