Benny L. Boyer

Benny L. Boyer, Cowgill, Mo, age 88, passed away Sunday, January 5, 2025, at his home on the family farm near Georgeville, in rural Ray County, Missouri. 

Benny was born on January 20, 1936, the son of Alfred "Pete" and Inez  (Stephenson) Boyer on that same family farm, and graduated from Braymer High School in the Class of 1953.  He was also a member of the Little Union Methodist Church, Polo Masonic Lodge, and the Ararat Shine.

He was united in marriage to Carolyn Kincaid on December 25, 1955, and to this union four daughters were born, Pamela McNeel of Cowgill, MO, Robin (Bruce) Clariday of Hardin, MO, Kathy List of Polo, MO, and Jennifer (David) Hamilton of Norborne, MO.  Carolyn preceded him in death on November 26, 1999. 

On June 23, 2001, he married Joan (Slover) Bales, who survives of the home. Survivors include his daughters; stepdaughter, Lynn Hayes (Russell Spry), of Polo, MO; seven grandchildren, Chris Clariday, Andrea Dial, Terry Barron, Zach Yuille, Heather Spry, Hunter Hamilton and Ellie Hamilton; three step-grandchildren, Deana Hayes, Devin Hayes, and Darcy Gordon; several great-grandchildren; his beloved nieces, Darlene Adkison, Cherie Smith and Candy Smith; and nephew, Gene Boyer, as well as a host of extended family members and cherished friends.

Benny was a son, little brother, husband, father, and friend. He selflessly returned from college to assume the responsibilities on the farm raising row crops and livestock, and taking care of his folks and family.  A true steward of the land, he loved the challenges that provided him, and revelled at a job well done.  In addition to farming, Benny owned and operated a welding repair shop on his farm at Tinney's Grove which offered his talents to others in the rural area.  Later in life, his passion for the outdoors led him to his work at the Missouri Department of Conservation where he explored and conserved the very land and nature that personally brought him immense joy and solace.   

He often would say "Work Hard, Play Hard," and spent much of his spare time hunting, hosting deer camp, black powder shoots, Rendezvous, bowling with brother, Billy, spending time with his family and friends often sharing his wisdom, wit and dry sense of humor and in most cases a snicker and grin.  His daughters and countless others sought his knowledge, guidance, creativity, ingenuity, and his humble intellect forming sincere bonds to a vast community of those who knew Benny Boyer.  Often in random conversations in all walks of life, and various places the "Do you know Benny Boyer?" "Are you Benny Boyer's daughter?" statements seem to be universal and recurring slogans.  Throughout his nearly 89 years of life he remained relatable, never becoming old, and remained unapologetically a simple man who loved in a way unique only to Benny Boyer.

Benny was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife, Carolyn; granddaughter, Jessica Whitfield; sons-in-law, Jeff Whitfield, and Ron McNeel; brother and sister-in-law, Billy and Genie Boyer. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Shirkey Hospice in care of the funeral home. A service celebrating Benny's life will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, January 20, 2025, at Stith Funeral Home in Polo. The family will receive friends one-hour prior to the service at the funeral home.  Burial at a later date at Braymer Evergreen Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home in Polo (660) 354-2214. Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Benny L. Boyer, please visit our floral store.