Billy Joe Gracy Sr.

Billy Joe "Bijou" Gracy, Sr., age 76, of Cassville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 13, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

Bill was born November 6, 1948, in Wichita, Kansas, to Horace Gracy and Sadie (Babcock) Gracy. He pursued education with dedication, earning a bachelor's degree in mathematics and a master's degree in business management.

On July 10, 1982, Bill married the love of his life, Donna Cannington, at Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina. Together they shared more than four decades of marriage, raising their family and building a life filled with faith, service, and love.

Bill proudly served his country as a career officer in the United States Air Force, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He was a highly decorated command pilot, recognized for his exceptional skill, courage, and leadership. Among his many honors, Bill was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his extraordinary achievement in safely landing a disabled F-16, a testament to his calm under pressure.

Following his distinguished military career, Bill became a captain for Southwest Airlines where he perfected a steady stream of antics and stories to the delight of many of his fellow crew and passengers. Countless people were at least temporarily convinced he was the proud owner of a world-renowned bullfrog ranch.

A man of strong faith, Bill was a devoted member of St. Edwards Catholic Church in Cassville for over 30 years. He was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus, giving his time and talents generously to his church and community.

Bill enjoyed the outdoors. He especially loved hunting and fishing, often saying there was always enough time for "just one more cast." That love of fishing was shared with those he loved, even strangers. Bill lived for large family gatherings at Roaring River State Park, and everyone marked opening day of trout season on their calendar. He is remembered for his quick wit, endless jokes, and signature cackling laugh. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his loving wife of 43 years Donna Gracy; four sons, Billy Joe "BJ" Gracy Jr. and his wife Becky of Stratford, Oklahoma, Steven Allen Gracy of Wichita, Kansas, Lieutenant Colonel Jeremy Scott Gracy and his wife Etsuko of Honolulu, Hawaii, and Joseph Douglas Gracy and his wife Laura of Orlando, Florida; seven grandchildren, Thomas, Kayla, Kyle, Shelby and her husband Chris, Aubrey and her husband James, Nash and his wife Bekkah, TJ and his fiance Alison; two great grandchildren, Cannon and Harper; one sister, Janice Lasswell of Wichita, Kansas; two brothers, Gary Martin of Wichita, Kansas, Marlan Hoffman and his wife Joy of De Soto, Kansas; and one brother in law Don Roll of Verona, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Don, Dean, Richard, and Bobby; and one sister, Linda.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Friday, September 19, 2025, at White Funeral Home and Crematory in Cassville, Missouri. A funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, September 20, 2025, at St. Edwards Catholic Church in Cassville, Missouri, with Father William Hodgson officiating. Internment with full military honors will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in the Spring of 2026.

Arrangements are under the direction of White Funeral Home and Crematory.