Rev. Monsignor William 'Bill' Stanton

The Rev. Monsignor William J. "Bill" Stanton, 85, died Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2017, in St. Louis, where he moved last year from Cape Girardeau.

He served parishes throughout southern Missouri for six decades, starting with a group of young priests who drove winding Ozark highways to introduce themselves to the region's many non-Catholic communities. He later served at least 10 parishes from Joplin to Cape Girardeau, and will be remembered by the many parishioners whose lives he touched.

Bill was born May 28, 1931, in St. Louis to the late Frank and Rose Haas Stanton. He grew up on the city's south side, attended St. Louis Prep and Kenrick Seminary before being ordained in 1956.

He recently was preceded in death by his brother, Frank L. Stanton of St. Louis.

He is survived by his sister-in-law, Elizabeth A. Buehrle Stanton; and nieces Laura (David LaGesse) and Carol (Kirk Warner) Stanton.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today, with parish prayers at 6:30 p.m., at St. Mary's Cathedral in Cape Girardeau.

Funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Monday at the cathedral, with the Most Rev. Edward M. Rice officiating. Burial will be at St. Mary's Cemetery in Cape Girardeau.

Memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Church Extension Society.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.