Will Masters

Mr. William Ernest "Will" Masters, aged 59, of Jefferson City, MO, passed away Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at the Capital Region Medical Center.
Will was born on June 17, 1964, in Jefferson City, MO, the son of Frank Milton and Jane Ellen "Chuckie" (Ely) Masters.
A lifelong resident of the central Missouri area, Will graduated from Jefferson City High School. During his high school years, he was involved in the band and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. Later, he graduated from the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg with a bachelor's degree in business administration.
Will devoted over 30 years of his life to employment with the State of Missouri. He spent the majority of those years with the Secretary of State's Office, transitioned as a manager with the Department of Motor Vehicles for five years, and retired in 2020 as a Business Analyst for CSG Government Solutions. Retiring at a young age, he planned to pursue numerous hobbies and interests in the next chapter of his life.
Will's love for nature was evident in his lifelong commitment to camping. Whether camping or kayaking year-round with friends, he ensured he had all the necessary gear for these outdoor adventures. He found solace being on the streams in Missouri and enjoyed time at the Lake of the Ozarks with family.
Will's zest for life was multifaceted, and he was passionate about everything he invested his energy into. He loved music, with a particular passion for non-mainstream genres. Attending shows from California to Virginia and everywhere in between, he not only supported musicians but also formed personal connections with many of them. A creative force, Will channeled his energy into woodworking and relished the challenge of creating the complex Dodecahedron. His fascination with steam engine trains, exemplified by his recent thrill at witnessing the "Big Boy" train in Jefferson City, added another layer to his diverse interests. Will's enthusiasm for music, craftsmanship, and the marvel of life painted a vivid picture of a person whose passions knew no bounds.
Many of his hobbies and interests were always shared with his family and friends. Will's contagious kindness resonated with everyone. He loved being an uncle and became "Uncle Will" to many who knew him.
Survivors include: two sisters, Nancy Masters Barbour (Bob) of Virginia and CC Masters McClure (Mark) of Jefferson City, Mo.; his best friend, Krystal Roberts of Jefferson City, Mo.; nieces and nephew, Stephanie McClure (Ben), Ruth Barbour Cruz (Will), Doug McClure (Kelsi) and Sarah Barbour; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and beloved dogs, Sasha and Cooper.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one nephew, Jake Barbour.
Visitation will be held at Freeman Mortuary from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 10, 2024.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 11, 2024, in the Freeman Chapel. Private graveside services and entombment will be held at the Mausoleum of Riverview Cemetery.
A gathering to celebrate Will's life will take place starting at 6:00 p.m. Thursday at The Mission, 915 E High St, Jefferson City, MO 65101 for friends and family to continue to share memories and listen to good music the rest of the night.
A webcast of Will's service will begin at 2:00 p.m. Thursday for friends that are not able to attend by going to the "photos and videos" tab of this page and clicking the webcasting link.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Will Masters Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 95, Jefferson City, Mo. 65102.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St, Jefferson City, MO 65101.