Carl Ray Nance, 79, of Mexico, passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2023 in his home.

A Celebration of Life will be from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, May 20, at the Sexton Shelter at Lakeview Park in Mexico. Private entombment will be at the East Lawn Memorial Park Columbariums.

Carl was born on July 26, 1943 in Geary, Oklahoma, the son of John Buford and Dortha (Mackey) Nance. On October 27, 1963, he married Kay Thurston in Shelbina, Missouri.

Carl served as a Salesman and Manager of the former local Riback Supply Company for 44 years, retiring in July 2013. He made many friends amongst the local plumbers and contractors in the area and was fondly known for his ornery personality and wit. He was a lifetime member of the Lucky Wheels Motorcycle Club, where he, several friends and family used to spend weekends and holidays camping and riding motorcycles in rural Auxvasse.

Carl was handy, and enjoyed woodworking, do-it-yourself projects in the home and motorcycling. He made many items out of wood throughout the years for his family and friends and could make just about anything that was asked for. One of Carl's special gifts was his dedication in taking care of others and it was probably his most cherished 'job.' He had many nicknames, to some he was "Uncle Hobo", to others, "Commode Toad" and to his grandchildren, he was always "Papa". His 1985 "Beamer" BMW Motorcycle was his "baby" and he spent many hours riding and tinkering with it.

Survivors include his wife, Kay Nance, of Mexico; son, Keven (Julie) Nance of Mexico; daughter, Cindy (Rick) Billman of Martinsville, Indiana; three grandchildren, T.J. (Karrington) Early of Camby, Indiana, Carley (Josh) McCoy of Paris, Missouri, Dylan (Lauren) Nance of Columbia, Missouri; eight great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren; nieces, Sherry (Terry) Sumpter, Terry King, Irene (Bill) Williams; nephews, David Cruzan and Billy (Kim) Nance of Columbia, Missouri; as well as numerous cousins, aunts and uncles.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents, Buford Nance and Dortha Waymack; a sister, Carolyn Thomas; a brother, Dale Nance; a nephew, Christipher Nance; and a granddaughter.

Memorials may be made to the Audrain County Relay for Life. They may be sent in care of Arnold Funeral Home, 425 S. Jefferson Street, Mexico, MO 65265.