Fayette resident Sonny Stearns, age 70, passed away at University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia on November 9, 2023.

Gerald Wayne Stearns, affectionately known as “Sonny” by family and friends, was born in Cooper County, Mo., on August 7, 1953. He was a son to the late Willie G. and Agnes (Brozik) Stearns. He graduated from Fayette High School with the class of 1971. On September 2, 1992, Sonny married Donna Kay Wiley. She preceded him in death on August 7, 2013. Sonny primarily worked as a truck driver for most of his career. He owned and operated DK Stearns Trucking for numerous years. Sonny also held previous jobs with MoDOT and the Fayette School District as a bus driver. When he wasn’t working, Sonny enjoyed tinkering on his vehicles in his shop and going fishing.

Survivors include his son, Calvin (Lindsey) Stearns; three grandchildren, Barrett, Baylor, and Brenner Stearns; sister, Karen Stearns; three nephews, Ernie (Sheryl) Campbell, Rodney (Rebecca) Campbell, and Curtis (Raymond) Campbell; and a niece, Leshia (Ron) Hazlett. He is also survived by two step-children, Michael Taylor and Pam Taylor. In addition to his wife and parents, Sonny was preceded in death by a son, Gerald.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., on Monday, November 13, 2023, at Friemonth-Freese Funeral Home in Fayette, with Rev. Mike Jackman officiating. Visitation will be an hour before the service at the funeral home starting at 10 a.m.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Family’s Choice, c/o Friemonth-Freese Funeral Service, 174 Hwy. 5 & 240 N., Fayette, MO 65254. Online condolences may be shared at www.friemonthfreesefuneralservice.com.