William Newton "Bill" Lay, 79, of Kirksville, Missouri, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at his home.

The son of John William and Edna (Gehrke) Lay, he was born on February 7, 1940 on the farm east of Kirksville.

He was preceded by his parents, his sister Wilma Decker and her husband Joe; brothers-in-law, Donald Stamper and Ralph Semetko; and nephew, Richard Stamper.

Bill is survived by two sisters, Neva Stamper of Kirksville, MO, and Vera Semetko of Scotsdale, AZ, nephews and nieces Joe and Linda Decker, Karen Herleth, Holli Semetko, and Craig Semetko and several great nieces and nephews.

Bill was a life long farmer in Adair County until retirement when he moved to Kirksville. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, attending farm shows, and bluegrass festivals.

Graveside services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 6, 2021 at Maple Hills Cemetery in Kirksville, Missouri, with Pastor Scott Beard officiating.

Arrangements will be under the direction of Travis-Noe Funeral Home of Kirksville.