Willis G. Charles

Willis G. Charles, 89, of Sedalia, Missouri, passed away early Saturday morning, February 14, 2026, at Bothwell Regional Health Center.

He was born November 17, 1936, in New Sharon, Iowa, the youngest of four children of Cyrus and Mabel (Gay) Charles.

When Willis was about ten years old, the family moved to Pettis County. He was raised in the area and graduated from Houstonia High School.

He served in the United States Army from 1960 to 1962 and was stationed in Germany, where he worked as a typist with a high-level security clearance.

On March 8, 1969, he married Betsy Downs in Marshall. They shared 56 years of marriage.

Willis worked for Panhandle Eastern Pipeline and later owned and operated Qwik Steno and Printing.

He was a member of First United Methodist Church, where he served quietly and faithfully, often behind the scenes, doing whatever needed to be done. He painted several murals in the church.

He enjoyed dancing and playing cornhole at the Moose Lodge, working in his yard, traveling with Betsy, and painting landscapes. In his younger years, he played fast-pitch softball.

Willis was a man of few words, but when he spoke his words carried weight.

Survivors include his wife, Betsy; a sister, Ganelle Reid-Gay; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Neal Dewayne Charles; and two brothers, Robert and Lyonel Charles.

The family will receive friends at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, February 19, 2026, at First United Methodist Church on Thompson Boulevard, with funeral services at 1:30 p.m. at the church.

Casket bearers will be his nephews: Jerry Reid, Harlan Reid, Gail Reid, Chris Reid, Randy Charles, and Gary Charles.

Burial will follow in Houstonia Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to First United Methodist Church.

Arrangements are in the care of Heckart Funeral Home.