SFC (Ret) Dennis Ray Badgley

Dennis Ray Badgley entered this world on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1946, and went home to be with his Lord on Thursday, February 15, 2024, in the Dixon Nursing and Rehab Center of Dixon, Missouri having attained the age of 78 years. Dennis, son of the late Willis Russell Badgley and Evelyn Janee (Holloway) Badgley, was born in Springfield, Missouri where he grew up and attended school. He graduated from Hillcrest Senior High School with the Class of 1964. In 1974, Dennis entered the United States Army and served his country faithfully until his retirement in 1996 after 22 years of service. He had attained the rank of Sergeant First Class and earned several awards and commendations; some of which include: Army Achievement Medal (3rd Award), Army Good Conduct Medal (7th Award), National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award), Army Lapel Button, Noncommissioned Officer’s Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral 3, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (4th Award), Marksman Badge (Rifle, Pistol) and Driver and Mechanic Badge. While serving in the military in Korea, Dennis met a young lady by the name of Chong Suk Kim. He fell in love with this young lady, and they were united in marriage on January 30, 1976, in Seoul, South Korea. They shared over 48 years of marriage together and were blessed with one daughter, Robin, whom they adored. After retiring from the military, Dennis’ passion in life became helping other veterans with their VA claims. Using his own experience as a paralyzed veteran, he sought out to inform and to lead others through the somewhat tedious process. Because of his personal relationship with Jesus Christ, he saw this as his ministry to serve the Lord and serve others. In his spare time, Dennis enjoyed collecting whatever he thought was valuable; whether it be stamps, coins, bottles, sports cards, books, etc. When he was able, he liked to use his metal detector and try to find some treasures and also made a couple of trips to pan for gold. He enjoyed watching NASCAR races, sports of about any kind, and any treasure hunting show (Gold Rush, American Pickers, etc.). He had a love of classic cars and race cars and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with anyone that was interested. When Dennis and his family settled in the Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri area, they began attending Maranatha Baptist Church in St. Robert, Missouri and immediately found a church they called home. They became members and enjoyed helping whenever they could. Dennis loved his family dearly and enjoyed spending time with them whenever possible. He will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered by all of those that knew and loved him. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife: Chong Badgley of the home; one daughter: Robin and Dan Margerison of Elk Grove, CA; two grandchildren: Micah Margerison and Elijah Margerison, both of Elk Grove, CA; several other relatives and friends. Even though he is gone from our sight, Dennis’ love for his Lord, family, and country will live on in our hearts forever. Services were held at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, February 22, 2024 in the Marantha Baptist Church of St. Robert, Missouri with Pastor Keith Carnahan officiating. The congregation sang “What a Day That Will Be”, “Little Is Much When God Is In It”, and “When We All Get to Heaven”. Rachel Bell, Merribeth Napuunoa & Laura Matthews did a special selection by the title “I Shall Know Him”. Sharing words of remembrance was Dennis’ daughter, Robin Margerison. Burial with military honors were held in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery of Waynesville with honors being provided by the United States Army. Services were under the care and direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of SFC (Ret) Dennis Badgley and may be left at Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert.

SFC (Ret) Dennis Ray Badgley

February 14, 1946 - February 15, 2024