George William "Bill" McElwee,65, of Hardin, died unexpectedly on Sunday, April 30, 2023, at his home.

Bill was born on July 3, 1957, in Braymer, the son of George William and Creole Mae (Butler) McElwee, Sr. He was united in marriage to Rita Joyce Jennings of Camden on April 1, 1978; she preceded him in death on August 18, 2004.

Survivors include: two sons, Robert William McElwee, of Richmond, Tommy Dean (Nikki) McElwee of Odessa; daughter, Jody (Robert) Michaels of Norborne. Four grandchildren, Emma, Sadie, Fiona and Killian McElwee; one step-grandson Danny (Tallie) Michaels; three step-great-grandchildren, Cameron, Alleyna and Nathan Michaels. Four sisters; Cathy (Hal) Hansen of Norton, Kansas, Mary Greer of Salem, Carol McElwee of Wellington, and Gayle Callahan of Marshall., several nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, one brother, Steve McElwee and sister, Amy Walker.

Bill was reared and educated in the area of his birth and graduated from Richmond High School in 1975. He was a well-known person who worked for Lafayette County Truck and Tractor in Higginsville for 40 years until he retired in July of 2022. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, Papa, uncle, and brother-in-law. Bill enjoyed traveling, camping, reading, ballgames and watching westerns. He was of the Christian faith.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Knoxville Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be dropped off or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home in care of the family to 507 E Main – P. O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085

Visitation and funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Thurman Funeral Home, Richmond Chapel, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. with services to follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be in the Knoxville Cemetery following services at the funeral home. Please remember to share your memories of Bill with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com