Joe Dean Thornsberry

Joe Dean Thornsberry, son of the late Roy and Mabel Thornsberry, was born March 19, 1932 in Swedeborg, Missouri. Due to Joe’s mother passing just six short weeks after his birth, Joe was raised by Dr. C. and Monta Mallette. On March 1, 1951, Joe was united in marriage to the love of his life, Geraldean Marie Hedrick in Iberia, Missouri. They shared over 61 years of marriage together and were blessed with four children: C. Joe Dean, Jerry L., Jeanette M. and Joyce K. Joe was hard working. He owned and operated Crocker Conoco Service Station for 10 years, served on the Pulaski County Commission from 1972 – 1982, Crocker School Board for 9 years, Pulaski County Republican Committeeman for Tavern Township for 22 years and Khoury League Coach for many years. Joe was a very active person, both athletically and physically. While still in high school, he was involved in sports and was a Hall of Fame Inductee for his athletic ability. He started working on the farm at an early age. He drove cattle from Bloodland, Missouri to Crocker, planted and harvested crops and raised Angus cattle. He continued raising cattle and was well known and respected throughout the county and state for his quality cattle. He was very proud of his herd and was continually sharing his knowledge of farming to his family and friends. His love of farming and raising cattle was not his job, but his passion. He lived and worked not just on the farm, but for the farm, to ensure that his sons and daughters could inherit his legacy. His love for his wife, children and grandchildren was unlimited. He never stopped providing love, guidance, and support no matter their age. Joe was an active father/supporter of his children throughout their lives and often acted as coach and mentor. His love, wisdom and many stories will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Joe passed away Sunday, October 21, 2012 in the Cox South Hospital of Springfield, Missouri having attained the age of 80 years. He will be sadly missed by all those that knew and loved him. Joe leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife: Geraldean Thornsberry of the home; two sons: C. Joe Dean Thornsberry (Judy) of Ballwin, MO, Jerry L. Thornsberry (Roxane) of Crocker, MO; one daughter: Jeanette Thornsberry of Springfield, MO; one sister: Betty Lee Sooter of Crocker, MO; one brother: Robert M. Thornsberry (Wanda) of Swedeborg, MO; three granddaughters: Sarah Lemons (Craig), Rebecca Schwandt, and Amanda Starnes (Jake); two great grandchildren: Austin and Sophia Lemons; son-in-law: George H. Schwandt; several other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by Dr. C. and Monta Mallette (who raised him); one daughter: Joyce K. Schwandt; and one brother: Kenneth W. Thornsberry. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, October 25, 2012 in the First Assembly of God Church of Crocker, Missouri with Bro. Jim Burton and Rev. Phil Duncan officiating. Dr. Max Thornsberry, Joe’s nephew, read the obituary and recalled his wonderful memories of Joe. The congregation was led in singing “When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder” and “When They Ring Those Golden Bells”. Joe’s granddaughter, Rev. Rebecca Schwandt led the congregation in saying the Lord’s Prayer. Serving as escorts were Jake Starnes, Craig Lemons, Dennis Thornsberry, Max Thornsberry, Danny Milligan, Danny Graves, Kris York and Randy Stroud. Serving as honorary escort were Bud Newcomb, Bill Parker, Charles Mackney, George Schwandt, J.T. Robert, Larry Salveter, Mike Rouse and Bud Bradshaw. Burial followed in the Crocker Memorial Park Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Joe Thornsberry to the Joyce Schwandt Memorial Library in care of the Cox Health Foundation, 3525 S. National, Suite 204, Springfield, MO 65807 or may be left at the funeral home.

Joe Dean Thornsberry

March 19, 1932 - October 22, 2012