Billy Ray "Bill" Salyer

Billy Ray “Bill” Salyer, 90, of Independence, MO, passed away on Saturday, March 14th, 2020. A memorial visitation will be held Saturday, April 25th from 1-3pm at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E 39th St., Independence, MO 64055. A graveside inurnment with full military honors will follow at Odessa Cemetery.

Bill was born September 8, 1929, in Lexington, MO to Homer and Flossie (Paris) Salyer. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1953 during the Korean Conflict. He was employed at Armco Steel Corporation for over 30 years, retiring in 1988 as a Supervisor of Security. In 1950, Bill married the love of his life, Doris Cannon. They spent almost 70 years together before her passing in January of this year.

Bill was a master craftsman, spending countless hours in his home woodworking shop, mostly building things for others. He loved sports, including NASCAR and the Chiefs and anything outdoors. He and Doris spent a great amount of time traveling the country camping, fishing and motorcycling. Bill never met a stranger. Outgoing and neighborly, he would wave to all those passing by his corner lot, many of whom would slow down and wait to ensure that greeting would come from him. Bill was greatly loved and will be forever missed by his family and friends.

Survivors include: daughter Debra Moravac and her husband Anthony; daughter Deanna Boswell and her husband Tracy; and daughter Carol Jorgensen and Andrea Greenleaf; grandchildren Justin and Sean Boswell; great grandchildren Cayson Boswell, Kylan Boswell, Rese Collins, Samantha Moravac and Mason Moravac; his brothers, Jack Salyer and his wife, Nancy, Jerry Salyer and his wife, Mattie and his sister, Barbara Gillian; as well as, extended family and many friends.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Doris; and 8 brothers and sisters.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the VFW.