William Bradley "Bill" Rabourn Sr

1934 - 2025

William Bradley "Bill" Rabourn, Sr, 90, of Sedalia, passed away peacefully Sunday, October 26, 2025, at University Hospital in Columbia, MO.

Bill was born on November 30, 1934, in Sedalia, MO, the only child of Jesse and Evelyn (Bradley) Rabourn. On November 1, 2003, at the Celebration Center in Sedalia, he married Betty "Pat" (Higgins) Martin who survives of the home.

Bill was a man whose life reflected dedication, service, and an unending passion for learning and community. He was a 1954 graduate of Smith-Cotton High School in Sedalia and honorably served his country in the United States Army, later continuing his service in the National Guard. Following his military years, Bill pursued higher education, earning his Master's Degree in Business from Central Missouri State University (CMSU).

His professional life was rooted in education and leadership. Bill began his teaching career and went on to serve as principal at the Dixon School District and later as assistant principal at the Cole Camp School District. His influence extended beyond the classroom as he became an active referee in the area, officiating countless baseball, basketball, and football games throughout the years.

Bill's career continued to expand, taking him into higher education and community service. He was the Vice President of Business Affairs at Gulf Park College in Gulfport, Mississippi, and proudly served as one of the very first employees at State Fair Community College in Sedalia-being the second person hired when the college was founded. His vision and hard work helped lay the foundation for what the college has become today. Bill also served on the board for KMOS-TV in Warrensburg, contributing to public broadcasting in Missouri. Alongside his administrative and educational work, he owned and operated several small businesses in Sedalia, always keeping himself busy and involved in local enterprise.

Outside of his many professional roles, Bill lived life to the fullest. He was a devoted member of the Celebration Center in Sedalia and could often be found sharing stories and laughter with friends at his coffee club at North 65 Café. He loved being outdoors, enjoyed traveling, and had a great enthusiasm for sports-especially Duke basketball and Notre Dame football. Above all, Bill cherished time spent with family, gathering for barbecues and family events that filled his heart with joy.

Bill's life was one of purpose, service, and community-a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife Pat Rabourn of the home; one son, William Bradley Rabourn, Jr. (Cindy) of Springfield, MO; four step-children, Dennis Martin, Steve Martin, David Martin(Laura) and Mary Kindle (Brad); four grandchildren, Tripp Rabourn, Chase Rabourn, Traci Spencer (Shawn), Brad Rabourn (Brittany); 13 step-grandchildren; six great-grandchildren, Zayne Rabourn, Trinity Rabourn, Kayden Rabourn, Bella Foster, Elayna Rabourn, Savannah Spencer; 25 step-great-grandchildren; and two step-great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to both of his parents Bill was preceded in death by one daughter, Sheri Lynn Stevenson.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until service time on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at Heckart Funeral Home in Sedalia. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home with Rev. Candace Fowler officiating. Inurnment will follow in Crown Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the SFCC Foundation.