William “Bill” Junior Warren, 81, of Osgood, Indiana, passed away on January 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 6, 1944, on Stinking Creek in Knox County, Kentucky, William’s life was a testament to hard work, humility, and a deep love for his family and community.
He was born the son of Tommy and Rachel (Mills) Warren. As a young boy, William’s first job was to walk a mile to his one-room schoolhouse, arriving early to start a fire and warm the building for the other children and teacher. For this, he earned a nickel a day, a humble beginning that instilled in him a lifelong work ethic and compassion for others.
In 1964, William traveled to Osgood with only $5.00 in his pocket to visit his uncle. With no means to return home, he began working in produce for Ray Jones. Through a mutual friend, he met Brenda Jordan, and their first date to Coney Island marked the start of a 60-year love story. They were married on August 21, 1964, at the Nazarene Church in Osgood and built their life together, starting with humble beginnings and buying their first furniture from Gilland’s Furniture Store.
William and Brenda were blessed with three children, Mike, David, and Julie. He took great pride in coaching his sons in baseball and being an active, loving father. Known for his soft personality and the way he called others “buddy,” William brought warmth and connection to all who knew him.
Throughout his life, William dedicated himself to serving his community. He worked at U.S. Shoe, helped establish the county recycling store, and served as Center Township Trustee and on the County Council. His most significant contribution was founding the Ripley County Food Bank at the Osgood Nazarene Church, which began serving 10 families once a month and has since grown to serve nearly 150 families twice a month. For his selfless volunteer efforts, William was honored in 2012 with the Golden Hoosier Award by the Governor of Indiana.
William also managed local cemeteries, Otter and Perseverance, with great care and respect. A familiar figure around Osgood, he was often seen riding his golf cart adorned with Kentucky Wildcats stickers, a proud nod to his favorite team. He and Brenda also enjoyed spending winters in Florida, cherishing time together and with family.
William is survived by his wife of 60 years, Brenda; daughter Julie Bryant; son David (Shelly) Warren; son Michael (Robyn) Warren; sisters Vada Meirda, Shirley Helen Martin, and Opal Esakov; brothers Jimmy Warren, Kenny Warren, and Tommy Warren, and grandchildren Briana Hoppes and Conner Warren. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Dewey Warren and Curtis Warren; and sister Tammy Hankins.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Neal’s Funeral Home in Osgood, with funeral services immediately following at 2:00 p.m., also at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Ripley County Food Bank in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be placed at www.nealsfuneralhome.net.