William McClure

James William (Bill) McClure of Puxico, Missouri, the son of the late Don James Thomas and Ruby Mae (Barnes) McClure was born near Mingo, Missouri, March 16, 1944, and passed from this life peacefully at his home in Puxico July 27, 2023, at the age of 79.

James lived in the Southeast Missouri area the majority of his life. James was a proud U.S. Army Veteran, a member of the First Baptist Church of Puxico, held a BS degree in education and was a retired school teacher.

He was a former member of the school board, and enjoyed golfing, rabbit hunting, teaching, loved to travel, watching western and star track movies, enjoyed listening to music, and he was a stickler for up-keeping his home and property. Most important to him was spending time with his family, especially spoiling and nurturing his grandkids.

James married Diane Aug. 26, 1972, in Puxico.

He is survived by his wife of the home; one son, Ryan (Mahala) McClure; two daughters, Amanda (Brandon) McMillan and Jacquelyn (Dustin) Hodges, all of Puxico; one brother, Larry McClure; one sister, Beverly McClure of Puxico; six grandchildren, Parker Hodges, Grant McMillan, Luke McMillan, Griffin Hodges, Ruby Jean Hodges and Oaklen McClure; two close personal friends, Randy Olmstead and Patrick McGee as well as a host of family and friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, David and Johnny Franklin McClure; one sister, Joyce McClure

Visitation will be held from 5-8p.m Monday, July 31, 2023, at the Watkins and Sons Funeral Chapel In Puxico, with funeral service at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023, with Pastor Marshall Link officiating.

Interment will follow at the Puxico Cemetery in Puxico, Missouri, with Watkins and Sons Funeral Service of Dexter in charge of arrangements.

Watkins And Sons Funeral Service info@watkinsfuneralhome.com or phone 573-624-3548.