William Ray Oliver, 79, entered eternal life on October 9, 2025. He was born December 13, 1945 to Stephen Isaac and Mary (Strube) Oliver. He grew up on the family farm near Montgomery City and attended the Montgomery County R-ll School District, graduating in 1963.
He attended barber college in St. Louis. He became a licensed barber, working first in Columbia and later in Montgomery City.
Will married Floy Stadler on August 29, 1965. The couple lived in Columbia while Floy attended college, then returned to Montgomery City.
Will and Floy were blessed with three daughters, Stephanie Elise, Cynthia Denise and Jennifer Louise. As the doctor said when their third daughter was born – It takes a good hand to beat three of a kind.
Will was a member of the First United Methodist Presbyterian Church in Montgomery City where he worshiped with his family.
Will worked as a barber for 55 years while continuing to help on the farm. He also drove a school bus for 26 years, safely transporting students without even one incident.
In 2008, Will and Floy were able to realize their dream of living on the family farm, building their home on land deeded to the Oliver family for service in the war of 1812. The certificate is framed and proudly hanging in the home.
Will loved his life on the farm and always had sheep on the land. He was an avid gardener and loved sharing his bounty with family and friends. He was a lifelong Cardinals fan, win or lose. Will loved sitting on the front porch or back deck enjoying God's masterpiece.
But Will's true passion was his family. His favorite thing to do was spending time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and nephews. He was a homebody and would much prefer spending time with family at home than going places.
Will is survived by his wife Floy; daughters, Stephanie Norris (Bobby), Cindy Wesselmann (James) and Jennie Adams (Matt); grandchildren, Jordan Oden (Jessie), Kayla Roberts (Dean), Isaac Oden (Camryn), Adam Norris and Christopher Norris; great-grandchildren, William Oden and Roscoe Roberts; nephews, Randy Fry and Greg Allswede; and his faithful companion Buddy.
Will was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Mary Oliver; brother Edward Oliver; and son-in-law Ben Oden.
