Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home & Crematory

Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home & Crematory Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home and Crematory has served families in Lake Okeechobee for 45 years.
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We are proud to be the only locally owned family funeral home in the area. As the only locally family owned funeral home in Okeechobee, our promise to you is compassionate and respectful care while ensuring professional guidance for those we serve. As a full service funeral home we offer a vast selection of service and product options at affordable prices. Today many families are choosing cremation and it's important that you know we operate the only onsite crematory in Okeechobee County. Because of this, we offer you peace of mind knowing your loved one is in our care at all times and never transported to distant crematories where countless cremations are handled. We ensure every cremation is performed with careful individualized attention to detail with the dignity you're loved one deserves.

Pamela Suzanne Bogaert, 79Pamela Suzanne Bogaert passed away on April 7, 2026. She was born on June 3,1946 in Grand Rapi...
04/10/2026

Pamela Suzanne Bogaert, 79

Pamela Suzanne Bogaert passed away on April 7, 2026. She was born on June 3,1946 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to B. Carlton Snedeker and Alma Miller Snedeker. Pam was a resident of Okeechobee for over 50 years. She was a member of Saint Theresa’s Church of Buckhead Ridge, Beta Sigma Phi – Fort Lauderdale Chapter, and Delta Kappa Gamma. Pam enjoyed watching tv, floating in her pool, baking, socializing, and spending time with her friends.

Pam graduated from Pine Crest High School in 1964. She then went on to attend Athens College in Alabama and received her Bachelor of Science degree in 1969. Upon graduation, Pam moved to Okeechobee, Florida and went to work for Okeechobee County School Board. She then moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida and became the principal of Saint Andrew Catholic School in Coral Springs, Florida. Pam returned back to Okeechobee and purchased The Smart Set. Three 3 years later began teaching at Central Elementary as a 5th grade teacher, until her retirement in 2004.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, John Bogaert; and parents, Dr. B. Carlton and Alma Snedeker.

She is survived by her dear friends, Jeanine and Tom Gran, Patricia and Monty Michel, and Dorothy Bulger; stepchildren, Johnny Bogaert and Deborah Wanamaker; cousins, Sylvia Miller (Lawrence); and friends, Michael Evans, Fran Gailfoil, and her Central Elementary Family.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026 at Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home. Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. A private entombment will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens North in Pompano Beach, Florida.

The family requests that donations be made to Hospice of Okeechobee - The Hamrick Home in Pamela Suzanne Bogaert’s memory at Hospice of Okeechobee Donation - Chapters Health. Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Bernard Wayne Glasford, Jr., 79Bernard Wayne ‘Smiley’ Glasford, Jr. passed away on April 2, 2026. He was born on August ...
04/10/2026

Bernard Wayne Glasford, Jr., 79

Bernard Wayne ‘Smiley’ Glasford, Jr. passed away on April 2, 2026. He was born on August 22, 1946 in Sioux City, Iowa to Bernard Wayne Glasford Sr. and Violet Landeau. Smiley was a resident of Okeechobee for 3 years and a member of Calvary Kaneohe Church. He enjoyed computers and loved playing computer games.

Smiley joined the United States Navy and served for 6 years as Sea Air Rescue. After serving he attended Texas A&M University where he received his associate degree. He retired as a truck driver for Walmart distribution center in New Braunfels, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard Wayne Glasford Sr. and Violet Landeau Rekow; sisters, Veronica Feeney, Dolores Riley, and Sharon Brown; brother, ‘Butch’ Glasford.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Diana Glasford; stepson, Trevor Edic; stepdaughters, Shaun Rosenblum, Jessica Lewis, and Catherine Matejka; brothers, Skip, Shorty, and Keith Rekow; sisters, Renee Dietrich, Cheryll LaRoche, Desine Norris, Eyvonne Rekow, and Bettina Bergren; fourteen grandchildren; and one great grandchild.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until service at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Dixie Geraldine Wyatt, 91Dixie Geraldine Wyatt passed away on April 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was bo...
04/09/2026

Dixie Geraldine Wyatt, 91

Dixie Geraldine Wyatt passed away on April 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on November 2, 1934 in Whiteville, North Carolina to Gerald Green and Ruby Duncan. Dixie was a resident of Okeechobee for over 71 years and a member of Oakview Baptist Church. She loved reading, camping, cooking, clogging, playing her fiddle, motorcycling with her husband, traveling to her mountain home, and most of all spending time with her family.

Her kind and warm smile will be deeply missed by everyone dear to her. Today we are reminded of the importance of mothers and grandmothers in the family and all of the irreplacable memories she contributed to each of our lives.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 67 years, Forest Wate Wyatt, Jr.; parents, Gerald and Ruby Green; sisters, Alice C. Conner and Betty Tyler.

She is survived by her son, Forrest Douglas Wyatt (Pamela); brothers, James D. Green, Carson Green (Joanne), and Terry Allen Green (Beth); grandchildren, Forrest Douglas Wyatt, II (Rebecca), and Kristin Wyatt; great grandchildren, Roxy L. Wyatt and Ayden M. Wyatt; brother in law, Tom Amason (Lisa) and Glynn Rutledge (Mary); sister in law, Beatrice Castorina; and many wonderful nieces, nephews, and friends.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 13, 2026 at Evergreen Cemetery.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Virgil MinshewNOVEMBER 12, 1962 ~ APRIL 4, 2026 (AGE 63)Thomas “Virgil” Minshew was born on November 12, 1962 in Winter ...
04/09/2026

Virgil Minshew

NOVEMBER 12, 1962 ~ APRIL 4, 2026 (AGE 63)

Thomas “Virgil” Minshew was born on November 12, 1962 in Winter Haven, Florida. He moved to Kissimmee, Florida in 1975. In his early years, he started high school rodeo where he became The Southeast Champion. He graduated from Osceola High School in 1980. After high school he started working at KUA (Kissimmee Utility Authority) where he retired. For over 30 years he has been a member of the National Sporting Clays Association. He was Florida State Champion in 1997, 1998, and 2001.

He is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart of 44 years, Caroline “Carol” Fay Beam Minshew, of Okeechobee; brother, Nathan (Leslie) of Cassatt, SC; sister-in-law, Nancy Minshew, of Sequatchie, TN; brother-in-law, Tommy Travers, of Haines City, FL; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased in death by his father and mother, Oscar Roy and Helen Alberta Minshew; brothers, Ronald Eugene, Willie Frank, Charles William, and James “Jimmy” Franklin Minshew; sisters, Barbara Anne Travers, Mary Mildred Minshew, and Theresa Lee Lonieski.

To Virgil no one was a stranger. He touched many lives everywhere he went and was a friend to all. He always had a smile on his face and was eager to help in any way he could, especially through rodeo and sporting clays.

He will be missed by many, but is now in the arms of Jesus. There is no doubt he loved the Lord and was welcomed to his eternal home. We invite family and friends to join us to remember and celebrate his life at the Kenansville Community Center on April 25, 2026 at 11 am at 1180 South Canoe Creek Road.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Marshall Warren MurosMarshall Warren Muros, 75, died peacefully in his sleep on April 6, 2026, while napping in his favo...
04/09/2026

Marshall Warren Muros

Marshall Warren Muros, 75, died peacefully in his sleep on April 6, 2026, while napping in his favorite recliner with his wife of 40 years nearby.

He was born in Alexandria, Va., in 1951. Because his father was in the Navy, the family traveled all over the world. During his childhood, Marshall lived in China, England and Europe. The family returned to the United States in 1967, and Marshall graduated from West Springfield High School in 1968.

After one year at Virginia Military Institute, at the age of 18, he joined the U.S. Army. He was sent to flight school and trained as a helicopter pilot before he was grounded due to an eyesight issue. Given his choice for a new Military Occupation Specialty (MOS), he was sent to the Defense Language Institute, where he became fluent in Russian and German. He later added proficiency in Serbo-Croatian and a working knowledge of French.

From 1969 to 1983, he served in the U.S. Army with Military Intelligence and subsequently with Special Forces. Due to the sensitive nature of much of his work, Marshall could not share many of the details of his military service with friends and family. While he was officially stationed in Germany, he served some months of temporary duty in Vietnam. He worked behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War. At one point, he worked as a disc jockey in a rock bar in Berlin as a cover.

In 1983, he received an honorable discharge and transferred to a Reserve/National Guard Unit. He received a National Guard scholarship and an academic scholarship to attend Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree, specializing in history and criminal justice and was accepted as a master's degree candidate in history and political science.

In 1986, he joined the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office as a road patrol deputy. He was promoted to detective a year later. In his first two months as a detective, he solved more than 80 felony cases and recovered more than $50,000 in stolen property. In 1988, he was named Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

Marshall treated everyone with professionalism. Often, when Marshall and his wife were out together at community events in Okeechobee, various people would greet them and exchange a few pleasantries. When his wife would later ask Marshall who that person was, he would explain it was someone he “knew from work” – meaning someone he had arrested.

Marshall was calm in a crisis and skilled in de-escalating dangerous situations. Twice in his law enforcement career, he found himself facing armed murder suspects. He talked them down; in both cases, the suspects were arrested without further bloodshed.

From 1993 through 1996, and again from 1999 through 2010, he was the director (Lieutenant Commander USN-NSCC) of the Naval Special Warfare Trident NJROTC program sponsored by the U.S. Navy’s UDT-SEAL Association and the Naval Special Warfare Foundation. In 2002, he was selected as the USNCC Officer of the Year.

For 15 months in 1996 and 1997, Marshall was recalled to active duty to serve with the U.S. State Department as Chief Logistics Officer for the International Police Task Force, United Nations Mission in Bosnia-Herzegovina. He was the U.S. Contingent Commander for all U.S. law enforcement officers in Bosnia. The tour was initially supposed to last only 12 months, but he agreed to a three-month extension to manage logistics for the security of Pope John Paul II’s visit to the war-torn country in April 1997.

Upon his return to the United States, Marshall resumed his work for the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office. He served as the Okeechobee County Diving Officer and was the founder of the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team. He wrote and managed grants for the sheriff’s office. He held a post-secondary teaching certificate for criminal justice from the State of Florida and taught criminal justice and related subjects in the Florida State College System.

He retired as an OCSO Detective Captain in 2010.

Marshall loved spending time with his wife and children and was always ready to fire up the grill for a family barbecue. He enjoyed SCUBA diving, snorkeling, riding motorcycles and target shooting. He enjoyed traveling but was always happy to return home to the “Muros Micoranch.”

He attended the original Woodstock in 1969. He had an encyclopedic knowledge of rock and roll music of the 1960s, 70s and 80s. In his retirement, he learned woodworking skills and restored Klipsch speakers.

He had a soft spot for animals, especially those whose lives had not previously known kindness. Such was the case with his dog, Wanda, who was skin and bones and suffering from heartworms when he adopted her from a shelter in 2019. He was heartbroken when his faithful companion passed away in late 2025, and in 2026, he adopted a “second chance” shelter dog that had already been returned by its first adoptive family.

Marshall is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Katrina Elsken Muros; his son, Michael Muros of Orlando; his daughter, Rachel Parker and son-in-law, Grayson Parker of Rochester, Minn.; as well as by Tiffany, Davus, Leon and Malakai Johnson, whom he always considered part of the family.

In addition, Marshall is survived by sisters, Hilda Auffret and Sarah Ann Muros, both of Arlington, Va., Lynn Hartmann of Fort Lauderdale, and Lesli Torres of North Platte, Neb.; and brother, Scott Booker of Vancouver, Wash.

He is also survived by his aunts Marlyn Booker Brause and Ruth Booker Howard, both of St. Petersburg, Fla.

The family will receive friends from 2 p.m. until service at 3 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 2026 at Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Peggy Denise Gerth-Gernat, born January 29, 1955, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025, after a brief but courageou...
04/08/2026

Peggy Denise Gerth-Gernat, born January 29, 1955, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025, after a brief but courageous battle with brain cancer.

Diagnosed in late April, Peggy’s life changed suddenly as she faced her illness with quiet strength. In her final months, she was surrounded by the care and support of family, friends, and dedicated caregivers who ensured her comfort and dignity.

Peggy was a loving and devoted wife to her husband, Gregory Gernat, who preceded her in death. She lovingly cared for him until his final days.

Peggy is survived by her sister, Linda Rosse of Palm City, Florida, and her step-son, Jason Gernat of Clearwater, Florida.

Peggy will be remembered as a kind and gentle soul who showed unwavering love and acceptance. Though not bound by blood, she was deeply cherished as family and will be profoundly missed.

Her passing brings comfort in knowing she is now free from pain.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Norma Lorene Stagani, 86Norma Lorene Stagani passed away on April 1, 2026. She was born on November 13, 1939 in Oteen, N...
04/08/2026

Norma Lorene Stagani, 86

Norma Lorene Stagani passed away on April 1, 2026. She was born on November 13, 1939 in Oteen, North Carolina to Monroe Cloud and Nola Mullins. Norma was a resident of Okeechobee for over 33 years and a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She worked for many years as a baker for Winn Dixie. Also, she cooked and served food at the Okeechobee Flea Market and Watford Auction.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Thomas Stagani; parents, to Monroe Cloud and Nola Mullins; sister, Henrietta Johnson; and grandson, Erik Otersen.

She is survived by her son, David Stagani of Okeechobee, Florida; daughters, Diana Otersen of Okeechobee, Florida and Kimberly Pennington (Sid) of Fort Pierce, Florida; sister in law, Tonie Grishkevich (Walter) of Follansbee, West Virginia; grandchildren, Justin Pennington (Amanda) and Reid Otersen (Kaylee); great grandchildren, Jackson Pennington, Oliver Otersen, and Riley Otersen; along with a host of nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital in Norma Lorene Stagani’s memory at https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en or to Treasure Coast Food Bank at https://stophunger.org/.

No services have been scheduled at this time.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, https://www.okeechobeefuneralhome.com/. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Ronald Ernest Kruger, Jr., 57Ronald Ernest Kruger, Jr. of Okeechobee, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, ...
04/08/2026

Ronald Ernest Kruger, Jr., 57

Ronald Ernest Kruger, Jr. of Okeechobee, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, just days before his 58th birthday. Born on April 10, 1968, in Rochester, New York he built a life rooted in hard work, love, and dedication to his family. He was a resident of Okeechobee for the past five years and a member of One Fellowship Church. Toward the end of his life, he embraced his faith, finding peace and strength in it. Ronald was a dedicated truck driver who worked tirelessly to provide for those he loved. He was married to his beloved wife, Aleta Kruger, for nearly seven years. Together, they shared a bond built on love, commitment, and partnership. He found joy in the simple but meaningful moments, especially fishing and hunting with his son, spending time with his loved ones, and he took great pride in his home and lawn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald Kruger Sr. and MaryAnn Kruger.

Ronald is survived by his loving wife, Aleta Kruger; son, Matthew Kruger (Ashley) and daughter, Jake; son, Robert Kruger and stepchildren, Erica (Daniel ‘Kam’) and children Daniel, Alayah, and Carris ‘Baby Kathleen’; brother, Jeffrey Kruger (Laura) and son Gregory (Erin) and daughter; ex wife Mary (Bruce); Felicia and children Ryleigh, Emersyn, Audriana and Aceson; and Jared (Mariah) and children Carter, Capri, and Courtland; fur babies, Faith, Bella, Boy, and Sadie; and along with many aunts, uncles, extended family, and friends.

Ronald will be remembered for his love, strength, and selfless heart. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy lives on through the family and the many lives he touched.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, April 12th at 11:30 AM at One Fellowship, inside Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home. All who plan to attend the celebration are warmly invited to join for church service as well at 10am.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Elizabeth Ruth Chapman “Liz”, (70) of Okeechobee, FL a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and frien...
04/08/2026

Elizabeth Ruth Chapman “Liz”, (70) of Okeechobee, FL a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, (Good Friday). She was welcomed home into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior. She was born on April 28, 1955, in Ft. Lauderdale, FL and moved to Okeechobee when she was 18 and a senior in high school.

She was a resident of Okeechobee for over 50 years. Liz, a woman of strong Christian faith, a true firecracker was known for being equal parts, fiercely loving, and delightfully feisty. A woman who always spoke her mind and kept everyone on their toes. She was full of opinions and never afraid to be exactly who she was. She never turned down a good cup of coffee or Coca-Cola and a conversation with someone she loved; she had the kindest heart. If Liz wasn't at home, she was likely "on the run." She had a passion for the hunt, spending countless hours thrifting for hidden gems and adding to her cherished collection of Cobalt Blue China. When she finally sat down, it was usually to catch up on the latest drama of 90-Day Fiancé or something on TLC. Liz was a staple in the Okeechobee community through her varied and vibrant career. She spent years navigating the roads as an Okeechobee County School Bus Driver and served with the Department of Transportation as an office secretary. Many will also remember her quick wit and hard-working spirit from her day’s waitressing at local restaurants here in Okeechobee such as: Old Habits, Mom’s Kitchen, Lake Shore, and the original Fat Johnny’s.

Above all else, Liz lived for her sons, family, and friends. She was the backbone of her household and a constant source of care and energy. A devoted mother who took great pride raising her children and her children’s athletic pursuits, always cheering with unwavering love and support from the sidelines. She was an avid dog lover who found great joy and companionship in her dogs, treating them as cherished members of the family.

She enjoyed gardening and her favorite flower were sunflowers. Sunflowers symbolize longevity, joy, optimism, and resilience. An unwavering love or to bring light to a person’s life. Her legacy lives on in the stories, the laughter, and the "tell-it-like-it-is" attitude she passed down to others in the family.

She is survived by her sons, Oakland Joseph “Joe” Chapman (Kristina) of Okeechobee, and Darryl Allen of Indiana; grandchildren, Kora Stevens (Colton) of Alabama, Koby Chapman (Laney) Of Okeechobee, Hailey Chapman of Tampa, and Cayden Chapman of Tampa; great-grandchildren, Khloe Stevens, Kamdyn Stevens and Layne Bowman; brothers, Donald (Donny) Williams, Jr. (Jan), Danny Williams (Nancy), Dwayne Williams (Nilsa), and Matthew Williams (Sabrina); sisters, Ann Williams Bartenfelder (David) and Janet Williams Jarvis (Mark); and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and cherished friends.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Anthony Ray “Tony” Chapman; son, Jason Anthony Chapman; parents, Donald Arthur Williams, Sr. and Charlotte Matthews Williams; and brother, David Lamar Williams.

A celebration of Liz’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.

In her honor, the family asks that you think of her the next time you see a field of sunflowers or find a treasure at a thrift store.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

William Michael Cahill, 65William Michael Cahill died March 28, 2026. He was born on June 13, 1960 in Syosset, New York....
04/07/2026

William Michael Cahill, 65

William Michael Cahill died March 28, 2026. He was born on June 13, 1960 in Syosset, New York. A lifelong resident of Miami, he had relocated to Okeechobee six years ago. He enjoyed fishing and loved watching sunrises over the ocean. He had just begun woodworking and really enjoyed that.

Mr. Cahill graduated from Columbus High School. He proudly served our country in the United States Coast Guard. He was a loving husband, father, son, and brother. He never met a stranger and was a good friend to all.

Mr. Cahill was preceded in death by his mother, Joan Cahill Murphy; father, William Joseph Cahill; and stepfather, Richard Murphy.

He is survived by his wife of six years, Krystal Noland Cahill; son, William J. Cahill; stepchildren, Titus L. Noland and Mercedes Mason; sisters, Joann Gill (Patric) and Doreen Connolly (Ted); and a host of nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at a later date.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Legend Makai Osorio-Cruz, 4Legend Makai Osorio-Cruz died on April 1, 2026. He was born on October 19, 2021 in Fort Pierc...
04/07/2026

Legend Makai Osorio-Cruz, 4

Legend Makai Osorio-Cruz died on April 1, 2026. He was born on October 19, 2021 in Fort Pierce, Florida. He loved to run like Sonic, build Legos with his siblings, and role play as a superhero. His favorite music was Sonic. He loved fruits and pizza.

Legend is survived by his parents, Giovanni Gustavo Monter-Cruz and Thalisha Marie Osorio; brothers, King Elijah Osorio-Cruz and Royal Armani Osorio-Cruz; sister, Ahlena Marie Osorio-Cruz; gradmothers, Deanna Cruz, Marilyn Calderon, and Agnel Gonzales; great grandmother, "GG" Kay Cruz; grandfathers, Carlos Gonzales and Julio Osorio; and uncles, Alex, Christian, Emilio, Erik (Estreya), Ethen (Tiffany), Hafedd (Aubrie), Joepmy, Lucas, and Rondy (Estafany).

Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Evergreen Cemetery.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at,
www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee
Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida 34972.

John William Norris, Jr., 80John "Billy" William Norris, Jr. passed away on March 20, 2026. Billy was born on March 23, ...
04/07/2026

John William Norris, Jr., 80

John "Billy" William Norris, Jr. passed away on March 20, 2026. Billy was born on March 23, 1945 in Okeechobee, Florida to John William Norris, Sr. and Mary Alice Norris. While growing up in Okeechobee, he enjoyed fishing, reading, gardening, and every night he enjoyed building a fire – Rain or Shine. Billy had a photographic memory and if you mentioned any subject, he had read something about it.

He graduated from Okeechobee High School in 1963. After graduation, he attended the University of Florida and Indian River Community College. While attending college, he also worked for the Iglehart family. On February 13, 1967, he joined the army and was honorably discharged on October 23, 1969. After his military service, he began working at Bluefield Ranch full-time. Billy married Jo Anne on May 18, 1973, and together they built a life and family, rooted in devotion, laughter, and enduring love. They raised their two amazing children on Bluefield Ranch for over 50 years. Billy’s true passion was ranching at Bluefield Ranch and he believed in honest work and integrity, which defined his life. Billy retired to Suches, Georgia in 2008. He spent the rest of his life enjoying a quiet, simple life, reading books, and especially spending short periods of time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John William ‘Willie’ Norris, Sr. and Mary Alice Norris; and his first wife, Jane Christopher Norris.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 52 years, Jo Anne Norris of Suches, Georgia; daughter, Jennifer Lee Casarez (Daniel) of Von Ormy, Texas; son, John Ashley Norris (Jennifer) of Okeechobee, Florida; brother, Charles Norris, Sr. (Debra) of Okeechobee, Florida; sister, Nancy Brown of Okeechobee, Florida; sister in law, Sue Daman (Bill) of Winter Springs, Florida; grandsons, Daniel Casarez, IV (Sandra) of Von Ormy, Texas, Billy Casarez (Jillian) of Von Ormy, Texas, Dominic Casarez (Amanda) of Von Ormy, Texas, and Sam Casarez (Laee) of Von Ormy, Texas; granddaughters, Cheyenne Stafford (James) of Okeechobee, Florida, Amy McDavid of Okeechobee, Florida, and Amanda Simmons of Okeechobee, Florida; great-grandchildren, Emma, Daniel, Riley, Cayden, Reece, SJ, Christopher, Dean, Jane, Allie, Arya, and Zelda; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home on June 12, 2026 from 1:00 pm until the service at 2:00 pm.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com.

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Address

400 North Parrott Avenue
Okeechobee, FL
34972

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