Billy Jean Golston

Billy Golston, 91, of Unionville, MO, passed away at the Missouri Veterans Home in Mexico, MO, on Tuesday, April 3, 2018. He had been a resident there for about two years.

Billy Jean Golston was born in Exline, IA, on December 12, 1926, the son of Lowell Guinn and Jessie (Miller) Golston, who preceded him in death. At 12 years of age he moved with his family to Martinstown, MO, where he attended high school. Billy entered the United States Army in 1945 and served until 1947. He was stationed in Germany and the Philippines and was the recipient of the Bronze Star, the Silver Star, and the Purple Heart. He returned to the farm after the service and married Helen Davis in Unionville, MO, on March 21, 1948.

Billy and Helen moved to Keokuk, IA, where Billy worked for Swift Packing. He later worked at John Morrell in Ottumwa, IA. They returned to Putnam County in the mid-1950’s where Billy was once again engaged in farming. They milked cows and raised beef cattle. Billy later worked for MoDot for a number of years until 1972 and then began working with electronics, installing and repairing CB radios, satellite dishes, and other electronic devices. He retired in 1990, but continued his farming operation until ill health caused him to give it up. He especially liked raising cattle and goats.

Billy enjoyed listening to country music. He was a member of the National Rifle Association and the Mendota Christian Church. He was also a very active member with the DAV (Disabled Association of Veterans).

Billy is survived by his wife Helen and two children: Gwynn Newman of Wentzville, MO, and Steve (Karen) Golston of Moravia, IA. His six grandchildren are Adam Newman, Ryan Newman, Shawn Stottlemyre, Nathan Golston, and Billy J. Golston. He is also survived by 21 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Billy was preceded in death by a brother, John Golston, and a sister, who died in infancy, as well as a granddaughter and his son-in-law, Garrett Newman.

Funeral services for Billy Golston will be at Playle and Collins Family Funeral Home in Unionville, MO, at 2:00 pm on Friday, April 6, 2018. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at the Thompson Cemetery east of Unionville, MO.

Memorials are suggested to the Missouri Veterans Home and may be entrusted with Playle and Collins Family Funeral Home, 709 S. 27th St., Unionville, MO 63565.