William S. Heaps

William S. “Bill” Heaps, 93, of Bismarck, Missouri, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born December 31, 1932, in Weingarten, Missouri, Bill lived a life defined by devotion to family, hard work, generosity, and a quiet strength that carried him through every season of life.

Hazel “Corky” Heaps was the love of Bill’s life. He was crazy about her long before they were married on September 11, 1957, and he never stopped. He spent his life making sure she was cared for and loved, working hard so she never had to worry. Everything he did was for their family and the home they built together. Corky preceded Bill in death on October 2, 2011.

The oldest of six children, Bill left school in the eleventh grade to help provide for his family — a decision that reflected the selflessness and responsibility that would define his life. He gave from the heart and never expected anything in return. He welcomed everyone with kindness, always ready to share a smile, a story, and whatever he had with anyone he met.

There wasn’t anyone quite like Bill. He helped raise not only his own children, but also nieces, nephews, and extended family members, opening his home and his heart without hesitation. Using lumber and his own hands, he built a house and a life centered on caring for others. He was, above all, a devoted husband, a proud father, and a steady presence for his family.

Bill was born to Cletus W. Heaps and Margaret Hardy Heaps. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings Delmer “Darrell” Heaps, Larry Heaps, Sharon Heaps, Sandra Benscoter, and Cletus “Duane” Heaps; his daughters Amy Heaps and Toni Blankenship; his grandchildren Adam Wampler and Sarah Wampler; and his son-in-law Larry Wampler.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, who carry forward his work ethic, his example of putting others first, and the life lesson he lived by — that you can do anything you set your mind to: Robin Wampler, Heather (Darrell “Glen”) Wagganer, Jr., and Billie (Ryan) Since; grandchildren, Lucas Wampler, Michael Barnhouse, Megan Heath, Deanna (John) Dicus, Aaron (Taylor) Bloodworth, Zachary Wagganer (Canda), Ezekiel “Zek” (Rachael) Wagganer, Chelsea Since (Brandon Mitchell), Isaac Since, Madison Since and Tyler (Brittany) Helm; great grandchildren, Shelby Wilcox, Lore Lai Wampler, Caitlin Francis, Joy Welker, Ruby Welker, Ryleigh Mitchell Trais (Becca) Ames and Kyra Ames.

Bill proudly served his country as a Seabee in the United States Navy from August 1953 to July 1957. Over the years, he worked in the mines and operated diesel-powered equipment, traveling many miles and enjoying the opportunity to see new places and share those experiences with family through stories and photographs. He later dedicated many years to the Missouri Department of Corrections before retiring at the age of 80.

He found joy in life’s simple pleasures — gardening, fishing, embroidery, and cooking. Known as one of the best cooks in the family, he brought people together around the table where stories were shared, laughter came easy, and memories were made. He loved to reminisce and had a gift for storytelling that will live on through the generations.

Bill studied the Bible with members of the Jehovah’s Witnesses Desloge Congregation. This time spent learning and reflecting brought him joy and comfort.

He is also remembered by special niece and nephews Donna Hutchngs, Lenny Douglas, and Doug Heaps, along with extended family and friends.

Bill’s life was a reflection of love, sacrifice, generosity, and devotion to his family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

There will be a visitation at Cozean Memorial Chapel from 5 – 8 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2026. Visitation will resume in the funeral home on Friday morning, beginning at 8:30 until the time of the funeral service beginning at 12 noon. Interment will follow at Genevieve Baptist Cemetery. View the tribute video and share your memories and condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.