William Joe Durham

William Joe Durham was called to Heaven on Tuesday, June 5, 2012, at his home, with his daughters and son-in-law by his side. William was born on August 28, 1946, to William Mitchell Durham and Mary John Foster Durham. He graduated from Fair Play High School in 1964. He was drafted into the United States Army and served in the Vietnam War. William married Betty Combs in 1968, and to their union two daughters were born, Christie and Misty. He loved his daughters and grandchildren. He was a constant source of encouragement and support in their lives. He loved his family and his friends, and would help others without hesitation. He volunteered at the Salvation Army for several years and cherished the friendships he made there. William loved to fish with his friends and family. You could count on him for a good fish story. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and loved getting calls to go out for a meal, play cards, or watch a sporting event. William loved the Lord. He attended Harvest Assembly of God Church in Fair Play. Many knew him as a mighty prayer warrior. His faith in God saw him through many challenges in his life. He loved attending many prayer groups, and always prayed for those who needed God's help. His life is a walking testimony to the power of prayer and faith in the Father. William was preceded in death by his mother, Mary John Thompson; his father, William Mitchell Durham; and two brothers, John Durham, and Randy Cook. He is survived by his daughters, Christie Evans of Bolivar, Misty Stortz and husband Paul, also of Bolivar; three grandchildren, Trevor and Jessica Evans, and Kaitlyn Stortz; four brothers: Billy Durham and wife Sharon, Blue Springs; Leonard Durham and wife Connie, Blue Springs; Dennis Dill and wife Betty, Independence; Jerry Wayne Durham and wife Susan, Independence; two sisters: Janie Fabian, Independence; Betty King and husband Danny, Blue Springs. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and a multitude of friends. Visitation will be Sunday, June 10, 2012, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar. A celebration of William's life will be held on Monday, June 11, 2012, at 10 a.m., at Harvest Assembly of God Church in Fair Play, with Brother Norman Culbertson officiating under the care and direction of the Butler Funeral Home of Bolivar, Missouri. Interment will be at Greenwood Cemetery, Bolivar. In lieu of flowers, William requested donations be made to the Salvation Army chapter in Bolivar. Friends and family may sign the guestbook or leave private condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com PDF Printable Version

William Joe Durham

August 28, 1946 - June 5, 2012