Billy Ray Rogers, 81, of Richmond, died Saturday, April 11, 2020, at Riverbend Heights Health & Rehabilitation Center in Lexington.

Billy was born on October 11, 1938, in Richmond, the son of Ira and Mable (Foley) Rogers.  He was united in marriage to Mary Sue Reeder of Richmond on January 31, 1960; she survives of the home.

Billy retired as a custodian employed for 22 years at the First Baptist Church. Before that, he worked at the McCleary Clinic in Excelsior Springs, Lexington Hospital, and Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Richmond.  He was also a house painter.  Billy was a member of the First Baptist Church.  He loved working with his hands and working outside.  He had a green thumb, an outgoing personality, and could fix anything.

Billy leaves behind: son, Lester (Kiley) Rogers of Richmond; two daughters, Cathy (Daniel) Copeland of Lakeland, FL, and Karen Rogers of Richmond; 8 grandchildren: Lance Rogers, Kristen Rogers, Hendrix Frost, Maverick Pierson, Stephen Copeland, Jonathon (Gavena) Copeland, Jennifer (Kevin) Darby, Timothy Copeland; brother, Charles (Carole) Rogers of Liberty; and sister, Helen Williams of Gladstone.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers Bobby and Buddy, and sisters, Juanita Neil, Betty Neil, Norma Donnelly, and Ebby Jones.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Parkinson’s Association.  They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street, P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Billy will lie in state from 10:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. on Wednesday, April 15, 2020, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond.  Graveside services will be held later that afternoon at 1:00 P.M. in Woodland Cemetery, Richmond.  Please remember to share your memories of Billy with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.