OVERBROOK, Kan. – Billy Dee Warrington, 89, of Overbrook, Kan., passed away peacefully May 12, 2026, in his home surrounded by family. He was born Sept. 9, 1936, and lived a life defined by hard work, determination, and devotion to his family.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Eldora Warrington; his sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Bill Moffett; the love of his life, Martha Knight; his son, Billy Duane Warrington; and great-granddaughter, McKenzie Lynne Compton.
He is survived by his daughters, Rhonda (Edward) Tingle, Lawrence, Kan., and Millie (Shawn) Wheeler, of the home; grandchildren, Monica (Lee) Gottschamer, Pomona, Kan., Kelly (Austin) Grefe, Lincoln, Neb., Amanda (Jeff) Jones, Kansas City, Mo., Matthew Moore (Kelly Wasson), Wellsville, Kan., Kerry (Nick) Lyons, Topeka, Kan., Sheena (Aaron) Boden, Lawrence, Shonna (Mike) Williams, Lawrence, Sara (Kevin) Kimbrell, Topeka and Dylan Warrington, Lawrence; 18 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren; three nieces; and many treasured extended family members and friends.
Billy began life as a farm boy, learning the value of hard work at an early age while helping his parents with chickens, milking cows, raising pigs, and driving tractors. Though he often said he never cared much for the pigs, he carried those lessons of perseverance throughout his life. Even as a child, he showed remarkable skill in woodworking, building a hay wagon and crafting tools and gifts with his own hands.
He graduated from Lawrence High School, where he met Delores Jean Dunn. They married April 1, 1956. To this union their three children Rhonda, Millie, and Duane were born. They later divorced.
He was never one to accept “no” as an answer. After being denied a loan at around 18 to begin his own farming operation, he moved forward in other ways. He briefly served as a police officer at just 18 years old, though he could not carry a firearm because the law required officers to be 21. Soon after, determined to help build the future of Kansas, he persistently sought work on the construction of Interstate 70 until he was hired.
Billy spent much of his career as an electrician and was a lifelong member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. In April 2026, he was honored for 60 years of active membership and received his 60-year pin, an achievement he was deeply proud of. During his years as an electrician, he worked installing X-ray equipment and referred to himself as a “four-scope X-ray technician,” insisting he could read X-rays as well as any doctor. His daughters always enjoyed those moments and the laughter he brought into even routine appointments.
After retiring from electrical work, Billy served for approximately 12 years as maintenance supervisor for Rural Water District No. 5, retiring in 2006. He worked as deputy law enforcement for the city of Overbrook 1981-2010. His badge number was 45. In later years, he was in the police “reserves.” He often shared stories from those years, speaking proudly of helping others turn their lives around. He was known for offering a firm lecture – what he called a conversation – when someone needed guidance. His family often joked that some people might have preferred the ticket.
Billy was always willing to lend a hand. In his auto repair shop, he fixed countless vehicles for family, friends, and anyone in need. He spent many years living on the highway across from the liquor store in Overbrook before purchasing land east of town and beginning work on his dream home in 1999. It was a long labor of love. In October 2025, with the help of his daughter, Millie and son-in-law, Shawn, that dream was finally completed. He moved into his home in January 2026 and spent his final months there, grateful and proud. He hosted family for Christmas in 2025 and Easter in 2026 – moments that filled his heart and gave his family cherished memories.
Billy loved dancing and formed many friendships through the American Legion in Lawrence and the Veterans of Foreign Wars posts in Topeka, Ottawa, and Perry. He proudly displayed his nickname, “Billy the Kid” on his car during his years of Jalopy racing. He also loved motorcycles and mules, both of which reflected his adventurous spirit. Among his family, he was affectionately known as “stubborn as a mule,” a phrase that fit him perfectly. Beneath that stubbornness was a man who loved deeply, worked tirelessly, and gave freely.
He was firm but loving with his children and grandchildren. He had a story for every occasion and could keep anyone listening for hours. His life was built with strong hands, a determined heart, and a quiet generosity that shaped the lives of many.
Billy will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the stories, laughter, and lessons he shared with those who loved him.
The family will receive friends 6-7:30 p.m. Monday, May 18, at Feltner Funeral Chapel, Lyndon. Graveside services will be 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, at Overbrook Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Overbrook Historical Society, sent in care of Feltner Funeral Home, 818 Topeka Ave., Lyndon, KS 66451. Condolences can be left at feltnerfuneralhome.com.
