Passed away at his home on Thursday, January 29th, 2026. Jeffrey was the beloved fiancé of Katie Strayhorn, who he spent 22 loving years with; he was an amazing father to Zachary and Zane Wilms, and his step daughter Nicole Strayhorn. Jeff was the oldest and beloved son of Wayne and Ruth Ann (Witte) Wilms; loving brother of Clifford (Becky) Wilms; and a dear uncle, cousin, and friend to many.
He attended Our Lady of Sorrows Grade School, St. Mary’s High School and went on to study at Southwest Missouri State University. Jeff became a superb Graphic Designer and Artist.
He was a veteran of the United States Air Force.
Jeff was an amazing, kindhearted man who always had a story to tell. His favorite place was at home where he could spend time with his family and beloved pets. He loved to watch old movies, curate his collection of books and boardgames, and draw digital artwork. His love for his family, the stories he told, the artwork he created, and memories he left behind will never be forgotten.
SERVICES: Visitation at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL (10151 Gravois Rd., 63123) on Thursday, February 5th, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM, with the funeral service beginning at 7:00 PM.
There will be a full Military Honors burial at Sunset Memorial Park at a later date.
This news has just shocked myself and the whole CPG company. Jeff was such a great guy and outstanding employee. Our condolences to the family.
Love and loving memories to a talented, special man who was loved by family and friends. He will live on in all our hearts and will only be a thought away. Love to all his family and friends in your sorrow.
My heart is filled with sadness. Jeff will always be a smiling spirit that filled the world with color. Love, hugs and prayers being sent to Kate and family.
Jeff was a loving son to his parents Ruth and Wayne. He cared much for his family. I appreciated his happy personality which drew everyone to him. His life will greatly leave permanence and now a painful void. God bless Jeff with the promised eternal life.
He was no stranger to anyone who had the opportunity to know him. Thank you jeff for being an amazing human and bright spot in this earth. RIP
May God grant you all peace and strength during this very difficult time. Jeff was that guy who never knew a stranger. Sending hugs to you and the family.
There are no words that can ease a devastating loss like this.
We are deeply sorry for you and your family. We are praying for comfort for you.
With deepest sympathy,
Bob & Dalynn
From the Military Family,
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Jeff—a fellow Airman, a creative soul, and a man whose smile could light up any room. Jeff brought joy, humor, and warmth wherever he went, and those of us who served alongside him or knew him through the military community will never forget his spirit. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, for turning ordinary moments into stories worth telling, and for showing up with kindness and laughter when it mattered most.
It’s hard to believe he’s gone. The news was a shock, and our hearts ache for his family—Katie, Zachary, Zane, Nicole, and all those who loved him. We honor his service, his creativity, and the legacy he leaves behind. May his memory continue to inspire, and may his family find comfort in knowing how deeply he was respected and loved.
Rest easy, Jeff. You will not be forgotten
Cliff I am so sorry to hear this about your brother.
My condolences.
I will keep you and the family in my prayers.
May you and your family find peace from the Lord in knowing he is in a much better place and you will see him again some day. ❤️🙏
I just can’t believe it, just have great childhood memories he was good athlete, so funny good brother to Cliff take care all. RIP wish I had something more witty that he might say.
Sadly, I only knew Jeff for a short time. But that will always be very precious time to me. During the months I knew Jeff, I found him to be a truly gentle soul who cared for others and was always supportive. His influence will always be a part of my life. And though I never met Jeff in person, I feel the weight of his passing. God bless those who are grieving his loss today. May God comfort you and fill you with the hope that we will all see him again one day. I so much look forward to that moment. Thanks, Jeff, for sharing a tiny part of your life with me.
Very sorry to hear this news. Jeff was such a funny person and he loved playing practical jokes. I worked with him at Jefferson Barracks and we never knew who he was going “get” next.
He will be missed by many. To his family, I’m sorry for your loss.
Deepest Sympathy on your horrific loss. I am so sorry about you losing your brother so young. God bless you and your family in your time of grief.
Very sorry for your loss Katie. I hope you can take solace in remembering the good times you had with him. The entire BWT team is here to support you.
I am so very sorry for your loss, Katie. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts during this incredibly difficult time. Wishing you comfort, strength, and peace as you navigate the days ahead.
Ruth and Wayne, please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your amazing son. You are both in my thoughts and in my prayers is extremely difficult time in your life. Gotta give me the strength that you truly need at this time in your lives.
I was in total shock to learn of this heartbreaking news. I went to gradeschool with Jeff but sadly, I lost connection after that. It sounded like he created a very full and rewarding life for himself and that he was very happy and had a life filled with love and family! I am so happy that he knew that kind of life! Katie, my heart breaks for you and you and your family will be in my daily prayers as you navigate through this unthinkable loss. Gods peace be with you!
I am very sorry to hear this heartbreaking terrible news. Katie, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May you find a little strength and some comfort in the days ahead. Sending my love.
Wayne and Ruth,
I wanted to offer my condolences for such a painful loss. I never met him but he truly sounded like a wonderful son that could only come from you. I hope you are able to treasure all of his memories in your heart.
Katie, I am so saddened about this news. Love and prayers to you and your family.
Holding a special place in our hearts for you and your family, Katie. Jeff was one of those people who made everyone feel welcome. We are heartbroken.