William Howard “Billy” Harness, 85, of De Soto died Nov. 2, 2020, at his home. Mr. Harness was a retired carpenter and member of the Carpenters Union and was regarded as a highly skilled craftsman by all those who worked alongside him. He was a founding organizer of and a longtime volunteer with Jefferson County NextStep for Life, formerly the JCARC. He served with the Missouri Army National Guard and was called to active duty during the Berlin Crisis of 1960-61. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and caring for his dogs, but his greatest joy came from time spent with his family. Born March 6, 1935, in De Soto, he was the son of the late Deck and Alice (Henry) Graham.
He is survived by his wife: Stella L. (Yarbrough) Harness of De Soto; a son: Michael (Jody) Harness of De Soto; two daughters: Debbie (Bob) Duncan of Festus and Patrice (Scott) Parson of Farmington; a sister: Candy Jones of Gloucester, UK; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives, friends and neighbors.
He was preceded in death by a son: Dexter Harness.
Visitation is scheduled from 5-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, at Mahn Funeral Home, 900 N. Main St., in De Soto. Visitation is at noon and a funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in De Soto. Memorials may be made to Jefferson County NextStep for Life, PO Box 97, Mapaville, 63065. Arrangements are under the direction of Mahn Funeral Home.