Jim H. Gargus, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on March 28th, 2025 at the age of 84. Dedicated Sunday school teacher, deacon, and friend, Jim Gargus was a man of the highest moral caliber. Born September 1, 1940, in Dallas county, Missouri, Jim was the son of Tom and Lillian Gargus. Jim brought great pride to his parents from a young age, graduating as valedictorian of Windyville High School and earning a full ride scholarship to a local university. It was just the beginning of a life lived with great work ethic, leadership and determination.

Jim met the love of his life at a rehearsal for an upcoming school play. He was to sing, and Marilee was to accompany him on the piano. “Jim sang with his heart,” Marilee recalled with feeling, “but I played the notes precisely.” Afterwards Jim told his cousin that he would marry that girl one day, and on May 28, 1961 he made good on that promise. The two went on to build a beautiful life full of love, laughter and unwavering devotion to one another. When asked about Jim, Marilee could only say, “He was the best man in the world,” and no one could put it better. His children remember him as a playful, devoted father. His grandchildren all looked to him as the steadfast rock of the family.

With a deep and abiding love for God, Jim lived his life for Christ. He served as a deacon in three churches throughout his life, offering his leadership, wisdom, and servant’s heart to each congregation. Jim served his entire adulthood as a Sunday school teacher, dedicating time each week to further studying and internalizing God’s word. Countless people were touched by his devotion in and outside of the church.

Over the years Jim worked tirelessly in various capacities, including as an auditor for MFA, and later as the manager of the Springfield Regional Stockyards. He could even read upside down from his time as a LinoType machine operator. Beyond his professional life, Jim was a man of many passions. He loved to read, sing, garden, and write poetry; his poems were frequently featured in the local newspaper. He even tried his hand at embroidery, showcasing his diverse talents and creative spirit.

He got perhaps no greater joy than when he was spending time with his grand – and great-grand– children. His six grandchildren all fondly recall how he would crack peanuts to share or take them for rides on the lawn mower. His love was equally apparent for his four great-grandchildren as well. In fact, when flipping through the family albums, it is nearly impossible to find a picture of Jim where he doesn’t have a child on his lap. He was the greatest grandfather one could ask for.

Jim’s legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. He was a man who cherished his family, his faith, and his community, and his impact on those who knew him will be felt for years to come. His gentle spirit, humor, and wisdom will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Marilee, his children Gayla (Lester) Baker, Darren (Angela) Gargus, and Ramona Woodring, his grandchildren Brandon (Brittany) Baker, Matthew (Laura) Baker, Benjamin (Sarah) Baker, Savannah Gargus, Mallory (Cameron) Fish, and Mason Woodring, his great-grandchildren Luke Baker, Caleb Baker, Grayson Baker, and Waylon Fish, and his siblings Clyde, Ruby, Serah, Dick, Victor, Glen, and Jesse.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents and brother Tom.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at Greenlawn Funeral Home from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at Greenlawn Funeral Home at 10:00 am with burial to follow at Bowers Chapel Cemetery in Urbana, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in memory of Jim to Glidewell Building Fund and sent to 5801 N. Farm Road 141, Springfield, MO 65803.