Delbert Charley Mendenhall

Delbert Charley Mendenhall was born May 15, 1935, in Cedar Grove, Missouri to John Wesley and Verna Mae (Freeze) Mendenhall. He was from a large family and grew up in White Oak Holler. Delbert served in the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of MSGT, before his retirement in 1975. During his time in the military he was able to travel the world. For his faithful and honorable service, he earned many decorations, medals, ribbons, and awards. Delbert met the love of his life, Edith Dawson, while stationed in England. They were united in marriage on November 21, 1959, and together shared sixty-three years of marriage. Delbert and Edith were blessed with three children: Geraldine, Carl David, and Elizabeth. After retiring from the Air Force, Delbert returned to Salem and started working for the International Shoe Factory. He then did flat roofing with his brother-in-law, drove a truck for eight years, worked in the hayfield with his son, and retired at the age of sixty-two from the Soil and Water Department. In his spare time, Delbert enjoyed working outdoors. He especially enjoyed mowing his yard and any yard that needed it. Delbert loved to watch St. Louis Cardinals Baseball. In his younger years, he liked playing fast pitch softball. Delbert was a devoted family man and valued spending time making memories with his family. He cherished his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Delbert departed this life December 2, 2022 at the age of eighty-seven years. He is survived by his loving wife: Edith Mendenhall of the home; children: Geraldine Mendenhall, Carl David Mendenhall and wife Patsy, and Elizabeth Smith and husband Joel; brothers: Dolph Mendenhall, John Mendenhall, Ralph Mendenhall, Gene Mendenhall and wife June, Jim Mendenhall and wife Euylene, and Earl Wayne Mendenhall and wife Sharilyn; grandchildren: Andrew Mendenhall, Jennifer Mayberry and husband Jason, Cody Smith and wife Terra, and Laura Pool; great-grandchildren: Tyler Hafner, Ashton Hafner, Evan Mendenhall, Courtney Mendenhall, Dylan Mayberry, Cohen Mayberry, Ellie Smith, Waylon Smith, Kaylin Inman and husband Bryce, and Taylor Smith and husband Aaron; great-great-grandchildren: Rylan, Wesley, Braylin, and Addisyn; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Delbert is preceded in death by his great-granddaughter: Lyla Nichole Smith; parents: John and Verna Mendenhall; and siblings: Ellen Richardson, Bonnie Lewis, Geraldine Mendenhall, Thomas Mendenhall, and Doyle Mendenhall. Delbert leaves behind a great legacy of love, service, and devotion. He will be forever missed by those who loved him most. Funeral Services for United States Air Force Retired MSGT Delbert Charley Mendenhall were held Wednesday, December 7, 2022 in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor David Gidcumb officiating. Song selections played were “He Stopped Loving Her Today”, “Amazing Grace”, and “When I Call Your Name”. Serving as Pallbearers were Gene Mendenhall, Gregg Mendenhall, Cody Smith, Patrick Mendenhall, Jason Mayberry, and Tommy Mendenhall. Honorary Pallbearers were Aaron Brooks, Bryce Hildreth, and Andrew Mendenhall. Military Honors was provided by the Missouri Air Force Honors Team. 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

Delbert Charley Mendenhall

May 15, 1935 - December 2, 2022