Tommy Bilyeu

Pastor Tommy Bilyeu, age 71, of Ozark, passed away Friday, May 13, 2011 in his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born May 1, 1940 in Spokane, the son of Earl and Ruby (Maples) Bilyeu. On March 27, 1959 he and Joan Mabe were united in marriage. Tommy served in the ministry for 51 years, and was pastor for the Riverdale Baptist Church for the past 38 years. In his role as "Preachin"� Tom"�, he performed as MC with the Baldknobbers in Branson for 25 years. Tommy was elected and served the people of Christian County as Assessor for 28 years. Tommy was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was loved by many in the area and was always compassionate to those in need of his help. Although well known in many capacities in the area, Tommy remained true to his family and upbringing as a humble servant of God. Survivors include: His wife, Joan; five children, Renee Bilyeu, Ozark, Tammy Brandell-Carter and husband Jamie Carter, Nixa, Tonya Allen and husband Chris Wainscott, Ozark, Jamie Bilyeu and wife Stacy, Ozark, and Laysa Putnam, Ozark; 17 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; five siblings, Villa Ann Glenn, Nixa, Earl "Bub"� Bilyeu, Nixa; Richard Bilyeu, Spokane, Connie Bilyeu, Springfield, and Elbert Bilyeu, Ellensburg, Washington; other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Virginia Rollings, and Valeria Burk, and his parents. Funeral services will be 2:00 PM Tuesday, May 17, in Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, with Pastor Hosea Bilyeu and Pastor Jamie Bilyeu officiating. Burial will follow in Glenn Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 PM Monday in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Riverdale Baptist Church, PO Box 1571, Nixa, MO 65714.