William Green's Obituary
William “Bill” Green, 59, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, April 29, 2026. A memorial visitation will be held from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at H.T. May and Son Funeral Home in Boonville.
Bill was born on December 13, 1966, in Jefferson City, Missouri, to Thomas Green and Suzy Imhoff. He spent his childhood making the most of every season—creeking, riding motorcycles, and keeping life lively alongside his Cedron Hills cousins and siblings. Sundays were reserved for church, grounding a life that would later be filled with both hard work and deep appreciation for family.
During his high school years, Bill played basketball and developed a lifelong love for the game. He admired Julius Erving, proudly declaring “Dr. J” the greatest of all time. Around that same time, he began working alongside his father in the painting trade, learning the craft that would shape much of his adult life. He also cherished family dinners prepared by his mother, often followed by time spent at the creek or playing croquet together.
Bill went on to build a successful painting company, operating from the 1990s through 2020. His work could be seen in some of the most beautiful homes in and around Columbia. Known for his strong work ethic, he often put in long days—sometimes seven days a week—but always found time to unwind at the end of the day, sharing a cold beer and a laugh with friends.
Outside of work, Bill lived life fully and simply. His favorite season was mushroom season, and he had a true passion for hunting morels. He took pride not only in finding them but in sharing his discoveries with others, often telling animated stories of climbing riverbanks and cliffs in search of the best spots. Whether it was searching for arrowheads in the creek, seashells on the beach, or new “honey holes” on his wave runners, Bill found joy in the outdoors and the adventure it offered.
He loved spending time with his children and their friends—hosting campfires, lighting fireworks, playing basketball in the driveway, and telling stories that only got better with time. He enjoyed golfing with his sons, riding on the lakes and rivers, and cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs. Bill also appreciated the simple pleasures: a game of pool, good music played loud in his truck, and his favorite scent of Polo Green.
In his later years, Bill found his greatest joy in his grandchildren, Judy and Tommy, whom he lovingly called his “Sweeties.” Becoming “Pa-Pa” was a role he embraced wholeheartedly. He treasured time spent with them—whether playing, going out to eat, or simply being together.
In his final days, Bill enjoyed sitting outside, watching nature, playing games on his phone, and enjoying a good meal—especially a well-done steak, seafood, or Alfredo pasta, always followed by dessert to satisfy his well-known sweet tooth.
Bill is survived by his loving wife, Sherri Green of the home; his children, Cooper Green (Abigail) of Wooldridge, Missouri, Carter Green, Abby Green, and Olivia Green, all of Columbia; his mother, Suzy Green of Jamestown, Missouri; his siblings, Lena Green (Kevin) of Columbia and James Green (Cheryl) of St. Louis; his sister-in-law, Christina Stock (John) of Boonville; his mother-in-law, Sharon Gather Cole (Jack) of California, Missouri; and his cherished grandchildren, Judy and Tommy Green. He is also survived by three nieces, Alana Butner, Taylor Green, and Cayla Beair, and two nephews, Trey Williams and Spencer Green.
He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Green, and his father-in-law, Robert Stock.
Bill will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love of the outdoors, his storytelling, and, above all, the deep love he had for his family and friends. His presence brought laughter, adventure, and warmth to those around him, and he will be deeply missed.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Cedron Assumption Cemetery or Pleasant Grove Lutheran Cemetery Association.
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