Eldon Lee Flett

Eldon “Baylor” Lee Flett was born on October 13, 1948, in Dent County, Missouri. He was the only child born to Donald and Stella (Reese) Flett. Eldon grew up in Salem and graduated with the class of 1966 from Salem High School. After high school, he furthered his education with Linn Technical College. Eldon was united in marriage to Jo Anne Brookshire and to this union gained a daughter, Kimberly. He later met his soulmate, Bette Jo Colonius, and to this engagement gained two daughters: Angie and Tammy. Throughout the years, he later gained another daughter: Laura into his life. Eldon and Bette shared nineteen years of memories together before her passing August 28, 2019. Eldon was a hard worker and worked as an electrician at Amax Lead Mines for several years. He started his career as a Correctional Officer with South Central Correctional Center in Vandalia before transferring to Licking where he worked his way up to Sergeant. Eldon also spent several years working for the Boys and Girls Town as a house parent and participated in three wagon trains with the kids. Eldon liked listening to music and spending time with his friends. He enjoyed the river and a cold beer. Eldon loved fish fry’s, Cajun food, and made a mean Gumbo. Most important to him was his family. Spending time with his fur baby, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were some of his fondest moments. Eldon departed this life on August 17, 2023, at his home in Salem, Missouri, at the age of seventy-four years. He is survived by loving daughters: Kimberly Brookshire and fiancé Larry Welch of Salem, MO, Angela Colonius and partner Richard Crimmins of St. Louis, MO, Laura Norris of Salem, MO, and Tammy Colonius of St. Louis, MO; special friends: Terry Barkley and wife Mary Lou and Anton Paintner; grandchildren: Mahala, Cassie, Kurtis, Krystal, Tara, Casey, Scotty, and Chasity; several great-grandchildren; fur baby: Little Baylor; extended family and dear friends. Preceding him in death, soulmate: Bette Jo Colonius; grandson: David Colonius; infant great grandbaby; and his parents: Donald and Stella Flett. Eldon was one of a kind with a great sense of humor that shined through the lives of others until the very end. He was known for having one of the biggest hearts. He will be forever missed but never forgotten. Funeral Services for Eldon Lee Flett were held Monday, August 21, 2023, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Chris Hendrix officiating. Song selections played were “Drop Kick Me Jesus”, “Be Careful of the Stones That You Throw”, “I Saw The Light”, and “Me and Jesus”. Serving as Pallbearers were Anton Paintner, Scotty Westerman, Terry Barkley, Brad Foley, Tom Dodd, Larry Welch, and Richie Crimmons. Burial was in the Cedar Grove Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Online Condolences may be entered at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Eldon Lee Flett

October 13, 1948 - August 17, 2023