William Joseph Marquess

William "Bill" Joseph Marquess, 53, of Smithton, MO, passed away on Monday, May 26, 2025, at The Living Center in Marshall, MO. He was born on July 26, 1971, in Quincy, IL, the son of Henry Elwood Marquess and Wilma Ann (Yoast) Marquess, who preceded him in death.

On February 19, 2017, in Sedalia, MO, he was united in marriage to Jennifer Leigh Thomas, who resides in the home.

Bill was a proud graduate of Smith-Cotton High School, Class of 1990. He worked at Tyson Foods for several years and then spent some time in Texas working for Nucor. After returning home, he worked for Swift Carriers based in Marshall, MO, and later joined FedEx in Sedalia.

Bill's favorite hobbies included hunting, fishing, and riding his Harley motorcycle. He also enjoyed attending auctions and visiting garage sales. Most importantly, he cherished spending time with his grandson, Lucas; they were truly "two peas in a pod."

In addition to his wife, Bill is survived by a daughter, Brittney Goff of Smithton; three sons, Tyler Marquess of Cole Camp; Dillon Goff (Kaitlyn) of Ft. Riley, KS, and Joseph Marquess of Warsaw, MO; two brothers, Buddy Marquess (Marybeth) of Warsaw, MO, and Johnny Marquess (Becky) of Otterville, MO; a grandson, Lucas Goff; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Rusty Thomas officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel.

Honorary bearers will be Adam and Cindy Duren, Joe Duren, Shawn Duren, and Chris Hoffman.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.