Billie Dan Adkison

Billie Dan Adkison passed away at 12:09 p.m., Wednesday, July 21, 2010, at St. John’s Regional Medical Center, Springfield, Missouri, at the age of 76 years. Bill, one of three sons born to the union of the late Sherman Elvis and Rose M. (Stout) Adkison, was born December 4, 1933 in Richland, Missouri. Bill attended the Turkey Ridge, Richland and Morrow grammar schools. He went to Richland High School, graduating with the Class of 1952. Bill served his country in the Air Force from 1954 to 1963. He was trained as a police officer during his military service. Bill was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal with two bronze loops, and the AFLSA. On May 16, 1957, in Hatfield, Arkansas, Bill was united in marriage with Myrtle Mae Colley. Bill and Myrtle shared over 53 years of marriage, and were blessed with two wonderful children: Dee Ann and Dan. Their family grew to include Dee Ann’s husband, Todd, and later, their beloved grandchildren: Matthew, David and Morgan. With his Air Force law enforcement training, Bill accepted a position with the Bellevue, Nebraska police force; a job he held for 31 years (1963-1994). In 1997, Bill and Myrtle moved back to Richland to retire and make their home. Bill enjoyed the Ozarks outdoors, especially fishing. He loved music, and played the auto harp, harmonica, flute, banjo and several other instruments. He also enjoyed reading. As a young boy, Bill professed his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ at the Morrow School building, where services were held on Sundays. He was baptized in the Gasconade River. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Richland, and the American Legion Post 240, where he assisted with military honors services for many, many veterans. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Bill leaves his wife: Myrtle; two children: Dee Ann King (Todd), Loveland, CO and Dan Adkison, Washington, IA; two brothers: George Adkison, Jefferson City and Terry Adkison (Linda), Russellville; three grandchildren: Matthew King (Christina), David King and Morgan Adkison; one niece, one nephew, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his grandparents: Daniel Webster Adkison and Effie Reed Adkison. In honor of longtime member Billie Adkison American Legion Post 240 began the services with a roll call at 10:50 A.M. with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 A.M., Friday, July 23, 2010, in the Memrial Chapel of Richland with Dr. Robert A. Lilly officiating. Soloist & pianist Vivian King sang "In The Garden" and led the congregation as they sang "Amazing Grace", a CD playing "Daddy's Hands" was also played. Serving as pallbeares were George Adkison, Terry Adkison, Jeff Adkison, Bob Shockley, David King and Matthew King. Honorary escorts were Dan Adkison, Todd King, Freeman Colley, Walter McMahon and Orville Roberts. Burial followed in the Center Point cemetery of Richland with Pastor Lilly reading a poem entitled "Safe In The Arms of Jesus". The American Legion Post 240 of Richland provided military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to the Richland Bears High School Girls Fast Pitch Softball Team or Warren Senior Center. Online condolences may be sent to www.memorialchapelsandcrematory.com

Billie Dan Adkison

December 4, 1933 - July 21, 2010