Billy “Bill” Meridieth
Billy “Bill” Gene Meridieth, 72, of Webb City, Missouri, passed away on October 17, 2026. He was born on September 27, 1954, in Sacramento, California, to Everett and Stella Meridieth.
Bill lived a life marked by dedication, service, and a deep commitment to his family and his country. From his early years in California through his distinguished military and law enforcement careers, he built a legacy of hard work, perseverance, and service to others.
Bill graduated from John F. Kennedy High School in Sacramento, California, in 1972. During his high school years, he played trombone in the marching band, which earned the Portland Rose Festival Award in 1970. In recognition of his musical talent and leadership, Bill received the prestigious John Philip Sousa Award in 1972.
In August 1973, Bill began his military service in the United States Army, serving as a Sergeant (E-5) in Military Police. He was stationed in Germany and honorably served his country from August 1973 through August 1976.
Following his military service, Bill continued his career in public service. In 1977, he was hired by the California Department of Corrections, where he worked at Sierra Conservation Center, Folsom Prison, and Growlersberg Conservation Camp. His dedication to public safety led him to pursue another career in law enforcement, and in May 1984, he graduated from the California Highway Patrol Academy.
From 1984 to 2004, Bill served with the California Highway Patrol, working in the San Jose, Monterey, San Francisco, Stockton, Redding, and Mount Shasta areas. Throughout his years of service, he dedicated himself to protecting the public and upholding the law.
Bill’s greatest legacy lives on through the family he loved. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa Meridieth, of Webb City, Missouri; his children, Camie Piccola of Pennsylvania and Phillip Meridieth of Missouri; and his mother, Stella Meridieth, of California. He is also survived by his siblings, Sharon Lincoln of California, Everett Meridieth of California, and Daniel Meridieth of Virginia.
Bill leaves behind four cherished grandchildren: Parker Olinger, Conner Martin, Madalynne Martin, and Riya DiNardo. His family also includes 19 nieces and nephews, 32 great-nieces and great-nephews, and one great-great-niece, all of whom are part of the family legacy he leaves behind.
He was preceded in death by his father, Everett Meridieth.
Bill will be remembered for his years of dedicated service to his country and community, his accomplishments throughout his career, and the family connections that will continue to carry his memory forward. His life was one of service, commitment, and perseverance, leaving behind a lasting legacy through the many lives he touched and the generations of family who will remember him.
He will be deeply missed by his loving wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Full military honors will be held at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Springfield, MO on Tuesday, October 27, 2026 at 1:00pm.
Arrangements in care of Ozark Memorial Park.
