Billy Joe Stark

Billy Joe Stark, 89, passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2025, in Carthage, Missouri. Billy was born June 24, 1936, in Jasper County, Missouri to Everett and Flora (Sanders) Stark. He was a lifetime Carthage resident. Billy was of the Christian faith. He worked at Steadley for 43 years. Billy enjoyed fishing and camping. He would run trout lines up and down Spring River. Billy also loved working with his cattle.

Billy was united in marriage to Gayle Mae Kost on April 1, 1954, in Carthage, Missouri; Gayle preceded Billy in death on August 10, 2022.

Billy is survived by one son, Jeffery Clayton Stark of Carthage; one daughter-in-law, Marsha Stark; two brothers, Elvie and Johnny Stark, both of Carthage; five grandchildren, Candida Parker, Missy Todd (Brett), Laura Canady, Craig Stark, and Joe Stark; fourteen great grandchildren; and five great great grandchildren.

Billy is preceded in death by his wife, Gayle; two sons, Randy Joe Stark (May 3, 2024), and Billy Charles Stark (April 18, 2014); two daughters-in-law, Tabatha Stark (December 8, 2013), and Carol Stark (2019); a grandson, Josh Treadway (2021); his parents, Everett and Flora Stark; four brothers, Wilbur, Lee, Alva, and Ellis Stark; and a sister, Alta Barker.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Dry Valley Cemetery, located between Pierce City, Missouri, and Wentworth, Missouri. A visitation will be held from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at Ulmer Funeral Home in Carthage, Missouri, prior to his graveside service.

Online condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.