James “Hugh” Fenley, age 96, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away on November 26, 2025, at Lakewood Senior Living in Springfield. Hugh was born on August 9, 1929, in Springfield, Missouri, to James and Erma Fenley.
On June 4, 1950, Hugh married the love of his life, Mary Evelyn, in Springfield. They shared 72 years of devoted marriage before Mary’s passing on July 6, 2022. Together, they were blessed with three sons.
Hugh proudly served in the United States Air Force for 20 years and was honorably discharged in February 1972. After his military retirement, Hugh and Mary returned to Springfield, where he began a successful career in sales. Hugh was an ingenious provider for his family,  known for his strong work ethic and love for Jesus. He found meaningful ways to provide for his family while also pouring his time and talent into volunteering in his local church, and especially enjoyed helping to build churches.
Above all, Hugh was happiest in the company of his family and friends, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be remembered as a gifted storyteller, novel thinker, faithful shepherd and truth seeker, and a man with a fondness for collecting unusual treasures. He was the one who could fix anything, push you to expand your taste palate in unusual ways,and surprise everyone with his famously loud and unpredictable sneezes. His unique humor, wisdom, encouragement, and steadfast love leave behind a legacy cherished by all who knew him.
Hugh was preceded in death by his parents, James and Erma Fenley, and by his beloved wife, Mary. He is survived by his sons: Michael Fenley; Ed Fenley and wife Sharon; and Rick Fenley.
He is also survived by his grandchildren and their families:
• Erica Mariage and husband Adam, and their daughters Evelyn, Ashtyn, and Blakely
• Ryan Fenley and wife Courtney, and their son Christopher
• Ethan Fenley and wife Amanda, and their children Owen, Bentley, Olivia, and Riley
• Brooke Schroeder and husband Bryan, and their sons Beckam and Benton
A visitation for Hugh will be held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 5:00 PM at Greenlawn Funeral Home South in Springfield, Missouri. A funeral service will follow on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 11:00 AM, also at Greenlawn Funeral Home South, with burial afterward at Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Springfield.