William Leonard McKernon

William Leonard "Crockett" McKernon, 71, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Sunday, May 12, 2024, at his home in Sedalia. He was born on May 3, 1953, in St. Louis, MO, the son of Robert L. McKernon and Irene (Holcomb) McKernon, who preceded him in death.

Crockett, a dedicated over-the-road truck driver for over 37 years, started his trucking career with Von Der Ahe Van Lines. He retired in 2011 while driving for Gencom Inc. out of Marshall, MO. His love for his community was evident in his barbeques for the neighborhood kids. He was a passionate pool player and had a diverse taste in music, with Eminem being his favorite artist. Above all, Crockett cherished his time with his children and grandchildren. He also served his country honorably in the United States Army.

He met the love of his life at the supermarket. After a one year courtship he was united in marriage to Evelyn J. Tarwater on February 5, 1980, in St. Louis, MO, who resides in the home. Through this union of 44 years, they had five children.

In addition to his wife, Bill is survived by five children, David McKernon (Karrish) of St. Louis, MO, Melissa McKernon of Sedalia, Danny McKernon (Emmily) of Sedalia, Angela McKernon of Sedalia, George McKernon (Brandy) of Sedalia; thirteen grandchildren, Matthew, Keenan, Alexandria, Maddison, Audreyonna, Riley, Malachi, Diamond, Indiah, Malaki, Madison, Mordechai, and Mercedes; a great-granddaughter, Maleigha; a brother, James Northcutt (Gale) of St. Louis, MO; five sisters, Connie Duckwall of Louisville, KY, Kathy Lewis (Steve) of Jonesburg, MO, Carolyn Dixon of St. Louis, MO, Susan McKernon (Michael) of St. Louis, and Donna Brooks of Salem, MO; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by a grandson, Nathan Reid; a brother, Robert McKernon, Jr.; and a daughter-in-law, Jeanna Sims-McKernon.

Funeral services will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 17, 2024, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Chaplain Tom Renfro officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel with full military honors conducted by the United States Army and Sedalia VFW Post #2591.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.