William Tennyson Obituary

William Sherman Tennyson February 14, 1949-July 2,2025
In writing these words, we honor not just the end, but the fullness of a life-its joys and trials, its laughter and tears, its quiet moments and triumphant days.
Early Life and Family Roots
Bill was born, raised and spent his 76 years in Columbia, Missouri. He never ventured far from home, only leaving it for military service. He loved Columbia and was content to remain here and live in his childhood home until his death.
Bill has two sisters Sandra Miner of Columbia, Mo and Cynthia Farlow of Phoenix, AZ. He was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Vera Tennyson.
His sisters lovingly called him "The Encyclopedia." Bill had a wide range of interests and enjoyed learning about everything that caught his attention. He enjoyed riding motorcycles. He took flying lessons. He made homemade wine-mainly sake (a Japanese rice wine). He enjoyed cooking and experimenting with recipes. As a young boy he enjoyed fishing with his dad. As an adult one of his favorite TV shows was "Wild Tuna." He also enjoyed just about any program on PBS. He was into computer technology. Civil war history and trains also captured his interest.
Bill could also be quite mischievous. As a kid he inspired his sisters to petty thievery in the family garden. He taught them the fine art of climbing through the garden fence undetected by adults so they all could enjoy the bounty growing there. His favorite target was sweet peas. Bill lived a frugal and, in many ways, humble life. Once when he was chided by a sister about holes in the heels of his socks and told it was time for new ones. He replied "Well, the toes are still good." Often in conversation with his sisters he would complain about prices as in "chicken thighs are too expensive" and so chicken thighs were stricken from his grocery list. He was a careful shopper and lived a simple life.
Education and Employment
Bill attended Vawter Elementary School then Rock Bridge Elementary, Jefferson Jr High and Hickman High. After graduation he attended Linn Technical College Linn, Mo and received an associate's degree in electronics. After four years in the Air Force, he attended the University of Missouri-Columbia and obtained a bachelor's degree in computer sciences.
After college he worked at the University in the Radiology Billing Department until retirement.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
No life is untouched by hardship, and Bill faced his share bravely with tenacity and perseverance. He had a Missouri mule like stubbornness that served him well in the final years of his life.
Final Farewell
Though words cannot fully capture the loss, they can offer comfort and connection. We say goodbye with gratitude for the time we shared.
May memories of laughter bring solace and may stories told keep the spirit alive. You are remembered, you were loved, and you will not be forgotten.