William "Billy" Cody II

Billy was a talented and creative man who loved to design, build, create, and figure things out. A mechanical draftsman by trade, he was also an entrepreneur who took great pride in bringing his ideas to life, including developing a carbon-fiber tree stand and launching Hog Salad Bait Molds where he was the owner and operator. He graduated from Vincennes University and was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in the county.

Billy was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing, especially bow hunting. He also enjoyed racing and had raced go-karts and drag raced throughout his childhood. Sports were an important part of his life, as he participated in track, football, and swimming and held a pole-vault record for 30 years. He also started the archery program at St. Joe, leaving a lasting legacy for others.

Billy loved music, played guitar, and could always be found working on or creating something with his hands. Above all, he loved his family and friends. Known for his quick wit, sense of humor, and unforgettable personality, Billy had a way of making people laugh and leaving a lasting impression. His famous “tickets to the gun show” joke and his thumb trick will be remembered fondly by those who knew and loved him.

Billy was married to the love of his life, Amy Lynne Tekoppel Cody, for 23 years. Together they raised their three daughters, Olivia Kaye, Ava June, and Ella Jeane, who were the greatest joys of his life. He also shared a special bond with his beloved dog, Millie Sue, whom he lovingly considered his best friend.

Billy is survived by his wife, Amy; daughters, Olivia, Ava, and Ella; father, Bill (Sheryl) Cody; sister, Jennifer (Brian) Schuetter; mother and father-in-law, Mike and Trisha Tekoppel; brothers-in-law, Jason (Amanda) Tekoppel and Alex (Amy) Tekoppel; nieces, Hallie Hubert, Holly, Elsie, Isabelle, and Oaklyn Tekoppel; nephews, Henry and Harvey Tekoppel; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Deborah “Debby” Jean Cody and his mamaw and papaw, Wathen and Betty Cody.

Billy’s life was filled with creativity, adventure, laughter, family, and love. Though his time with us was far too short, the things he created, the people he loved, and the memories he made will live on in everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Alexander Funeral Home West, 2100 West Illinois Street, Evansville, IN 47712.

Additional visitation will take place on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church Vanderburgh County, 6202 W. St. Joseph Rd, Evansville, IN 47720, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Father Gene Schroeder.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Oliver Wallace Library Endowment, https://stjoeco.org/church-home.

Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderWestChapel.com.