Stephen Ray Gene Proffit

Stephen Ray Gene Proffit, 70, of Sedalia, passed away Monday, May 26, 2025, at his home.

He was born April 3, 1955, in St. Joseph, MO, a son of Emmett Proffit and Georgia Witcom.

Steve dedicated many years to the Pettis County Road District, where he played a vital role in maintaining and improving the roads of the community until his retirement in 2017.

In addition to his work with the road district, Steve was a passionate auto enthusiast. He owned and operated his own auto body shop, where he worked tirelessly to restore and repair vehicles, applying his expert mechanical and auto body skills to every project. His love for cars and motorcycles was evident in everything he did. Steve was especially fond of driving hot rods and Harley Davidson motorcycles, a hobby that brought him joy and a sense of freedom. He enjoyed spending countless hours working on vehicles, always eager to get his hands dirty and perfect every detail.

He also enjoyed spending quiet moments in the outdoors, whether hunting or casting a line into the water. One of Steve’s greatest companions was his dog, Summer, who brought him constant joy and companionship over the years.

Steve will be remembered for his work ethic, his love of classic machines, and the bond he shared with those closest to him—especially the four-legged friend always at his side. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, skill, and quiet strength.

Survivors include one sister, Carol Miller of Kansas City, MO; nieces and nephews, Dawn Spencer (Johnny) of Cole Camp, Francie Kreisel of Cole Camp, Wendy Proffit of Cole Camp, Charolette Schoene (Jacobe) of Butler, Jeannie Paxton (Tim) of San Antonio, TX, Carolyn Wulf of Sedalia, Lucy Barnhill (Rey) of Sedalia; many great-nieces and great-nephews and a long time brother-in-law, Fred Kreisel of Cole Camp.

In addition to both of his parents he was preceded in death by two wives, Loretta Proffit, Christina M. Beach; and several brothers and sisters.

Steve's wishes were to be cremated. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until service time on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Heckart Funeral Home in Sedalia. Memorial services will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will take place at a later date in Union Cemetery in Cole Camp.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the family with checks to be made to Dawn Spencer.