William “Billy” Burton Bonnell, Jr., 42, of Kirksville, MO (formally of Unionville, MO) passed away at the North East Regional Medical Center on May 25, 2012 with his family by his side.
Billy was born on December 9, 1969 in New Philadelphia, Ohio, the son of William “Big Foot” and Hazel Bonnell. Even though Billy was born with cerebral palsy which blinded him, his disability never showed through his enormous smile and steadfast happy disposition. Billy’s laughter could magically cheer any and everyone. Billy was a resident at the Chariton Valley Home for Handicap Citizens for 27 years. Billy was as much apart of their family as his own biological family. Billy loved all kinds of music and even enjoyed fireworks which fascinated him. His constant love, despite his disabilities will be greatly missed.
Billy is survived by his mother, Hazel Bonnell, of the home; two brothers, Paul Bonnell and Jim Bonnell and wife Amanda of Unionville, MO; and sister, Andrea Bonnell of Centerville, IA. Surviving nephews are Colby, Willie, and Davie Bonnell. Surviving nieces include Shelbi Foster, Shaylie Leeper, Shonie Aldridge, Jaelynn Bonnell, and Isabella Bonnell. Billy’s surviving uncles are Harold and Ronald Lillie along with an aunt Vada Parrish, all from Ohio.
Billy was preceded in death by his father, Bill “Big Foot” Bonnell and his grandparents, Paul and Gladys Bonnell and Virgil and Agnes Lillie. Billy was also preceded by uncles, Leroy and James Lillie and aunt, Margarett Tidrick.
Memorials for Billy are suggested to the Chariton Valley Home and may be entrusted to Playle and Jones Family Funeral Home, 709 S. 27th St., Unionville, MO 63565.
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