William "Billy" R. Black II

“We all loved Billy Black. He was the epitome of ‘One of a Kind’.” William Russell Black II—Billy to those who knew him—was impossible to forget. He had a way about him. Sharp, funny, warm, and full of life, he could light up a room with a look, a quick remark, or one of his signature “Billy-isms.” People were drawn to him, and if you knew him, you knew. Billy was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2023 and passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, in December 1967, Billy grew up in Clarksville, Missouri. He was a standout student and athlete at Clopton High School (Class of 1986) and later graduated from Westminster College in Fulton, MO, in 1990. Even as a kid, he had big dreams and an unstoppable work ethic—a combination that would take him far. Billy built a career in insurance and mortgage brokerage and spent much of his adult life in California and Texas. His two sons, William Broderick Black (“Brody”) and Baron S. Black, meant the world to him. Later, he met his wife Tatiana in Austin, Texas, where he started a new chapter and embraced a blended family, becoming a loving father to Julia and Clara. He never missed a chance to share how much his family meant to him. Billy was funny, kind, and fiercely loyal. He had a way of making people laugh—whether through his quick wit, deadpan delivery, or just a well-timed glance. He loved the simple things—a round of golf, a day on the water, a perfect Missouri tomato, Harold’s homemade pickles, sushi, and a St. Louis Cardinals win. Billy is survived by wife Tatiana Black; children Brody, Baron, Clara, and Julia; mother Linda R. Black; sisters Shari Black (Joe G.) and Whitney Black (Alec D.); aunts Mary Dell Black and Lisa Pitzer (Clint P.); and uncle John Seward (Todd S.). He was preceded in death by father William R. Black (“Rusty”); grandparents William L. & Mary Jane Black, and Gregory & Mary Seward. Billy was deeply loved and will be missed beyond measure. His kindness, humor, and presence will live on in all of us lucky enough to have known him. A Memorial Liturgy Service will be held April 5, 2025 at 10:00 am at Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Clarksville, MO. Graveside Service to follow on April 5, 2025 at 11:00 am at the Greenwood Cemetery, Hwy W, Clarksville, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Billy’s honor to the Seward-Black Scholarship Fund, ℅ Shari Black, 23399 Pike 9332, Eolia, MO 63334 or online via his Everloved site using this QR code on the photo tab.

William "Billy" R. Black II

February 12, 2025