Billie L. DeWitt

Billie L. DeWitt, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, of Independence, Missouri, passed away on September 12, 2026, at the age of 92.

Born in 1933 in Nevada, Missouri, Bill was the son of Henry Donald and Laura DeWitt and one of ten children. His early years were shaped by resilience and hard work as his family moved around the country in search of opportunity. He eventually settled in Buffalo, Kansas, where he attended a one-room schoolhouse and began what would become a long and respected career in trucking.

It was in Buffalo that Bill met the love of his life, Linda. They were married on April 12, 1958, and shared an extraordinary 68 years together, building a life centered on love, family, and adventure.
Together they raised three children: Diana, Denise, and Doug.

Bill dedicated more than 40 years to his work as a truck driver, hauling brick, fuel, and groceries. In 1965, he moved his family to Independence, Missouri, and later joined Associated Wholesale Grocers in 1971, where he continued his career until retiring in 1996. Over the course of his career, Bill drove millions of miles with an impeccable safety record—never receiving a ticket or being involved in an accident—a testament to his skill, discipline, and professionalism.

Beyond his work, Bill lived a life full of curiosity and adventure. He and Linda shared a deep love of travel, exploring 49 states as well as Canada and Mexico by car, motorcycle, and motorhome. These journeys created lasting memories not only for them, but also for their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whom they later took along on many unforgettable trips. To them, traveling with Grandpa was always an adventure.

In retirement, Bill found joy in restoring antique tractors and hit-and-miss engines. He proudly shared this passion by attending tractor and vintage power shows throughout Missouri and Kansas, often bringing along his grandchildren, passing on both his knowledge and his enthusiasm.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters, Maxine, Irene, Rosemary, and Pat; one infant brother; and his son, Doug.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Linda; his daughters, Diana DeWitt and Denise Talley; his grandchildren, Daniel DeWitt, Jamie DeWitt, and Cameron Talley; his great-grandchildren, Emry DeWitt and Remington Bruns; as well as his sisters, Joan and Carryl, and brothers, Bobby and Jerry.

A celebration of life will be held from 2:00pm-4:00pm on Friday, September 18, 2026 at Heartland Cremation & Burial Society, 802 NW Vesper St, Blue Springs, MO 64015.

Bill will be remembered for his steady presence, his adventurous spirit, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the miles traveled, the memories made, and the lives he touched along the way.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a preferred charity or local food pantry.
Burial will be at a later date at the Buffalo Cemetery in Buffalo, Kansas.