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Billy Joe Rugg, 62, of Fayette, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on August 25, 2026.
Bill was born on February 7, 1964, the son of Hibbard Davis Rugg, Jr., and Ruby Fern (Fields) Rugg. Billy married Karen Peetzke on March 24, 1984, in Boonville, MO. Together, they raised two children, Paul and Cassie.
Bill attended New Franklin High School. In his very young years, he helped his neighbors by working in the tobacco and hay fields. Bill then went to work as a bricklayer and, after a few years, started his own company, Quality Masonry. He was a skilled mason and would often make the comment, “It's an ART, not just a job,” and his work was proof of that very statement. Bill had a lifelong love of fast cars and a natural gift for driving and could handle a car like no other. One of his latest builds was his mud truck. The smile that came across his face when he fired up the engine was pure pleasure and happiness. Bill lived life on his own terms. He was always willing to lend a hand. Above all, Bill was passionate about being a husband, father, and grandfather. He loved life for what it was and embraced whatever life brought his way. He will be remembered for his playful personality, his stubborn determination, and the countless memories he created with those he loved.
In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by three sisters, Judy Rugg, Brenda Rugg-Stevenson, and Shirley Rugg-Meyer, and two nephews, Davis Frehse and Kevin Robb.
Survivors include his wife, Karen Rugg of the home; children, Anna (Rob) Miller of Jacksonville Beach, FL, Paul Rugg of Boonville, MO, and Cassandra Kyd of Lone Elm, MO; three grandchildren, Clint Rugg, Lavae Kyd, and Evelyn Kyd; and three siblings, Lois (Ron) Hogue of Kansas City, KS, Linda (Bill) Robb of Hannibal, MO, and Oscar (Heidrun) Rugg of Stuttgart, Germany, as well as many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service honoring the life of Bill Rugg will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at Friemonth-Freese Funeral Home in Fayette, MO, with Rev. Dan Faust officiating. Visitation will begin one hour before the service at the funeral home. Interment will follow the memorial service at Boonesboro Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Howard County Fair Association. Online condolences may be shared at friemonthfreesefuneralservice.com.
