Garry Eugene Champion, 64, Monett, MO, formerly of Springfield, passed away on February 18, 2012, at his home in Monett with his wife Darlene by his side.

At 3:38 p.m., Garry’s faith was made sight. Darlene had promised him she would hold his hand until God took it from her, and she was honored to keep that promise to him. He was ready to meet his Maker, and he leaves behind friends and family who will keep alive the memories of his humor, his wisdom, and his generous heart.

He was born January 6, 1948, in Sikeston, MO, to Eugene Debs “Buddy” and Nova M. (Brown) Champion. Garry graduated from Sikeston High School in 1965, Southwest Missouri State University in 1971, and earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Memphis Law School in 1974. After serving in the Army National Guard, he practiced law for 25 years. He married Myra Darlene Fugitt on July 28, 2007, in Waupaca, WI, and they made their home in Monett, MO.

A long-time member of South Haven Baptist Church in Springfield, Garry enjoyed serving in a variety of church roles throughout the years. He served his community offering pro bono legal services. Garry was a Cardinals baseball fan, and enjoyed genealogical research. He especially adored his family.

Garry was preceded in death by his parents and first wife, Charlotte. He is survived by his wife, Darlene; children, Bradley (Tressa) Champion; Benjamin (Megan) Champion; Sarah Champion, Sunny (Jonathan) Baker, and Evan Fugitt; grandchildren, Zane, Jack, Callie, Via, Ava, and Rhen; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, February, 21, 2012, at South Haven Baptist Church, 2353 S. Campbell, Springfield, MO. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 12 o’clock Noon to 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Hazelwood Cemetery, Springfield, MO under the direction of Greenlawn Funeral Home South.
Memorials are suggested to Faithful Friends Animal Advocates of Neosho and may be made online at www.ffaaneosho.org