Loretta Jane (Ferrell) Southards

Loretta Jane (Ferrell) Southards was born in Salem, Missouri, on June 13, 1935, to Claude Everett and Mildred Louisa (Whitaker) Ferrell. She grew up in Salem where she attended a one room schoolhouse known as New Hope School, graduating in 1951. On August 28, 1954, Loretta was united in marriage to the love of her life, John Southards. Loretta and John were blessed with three sons: Dennis, Lyndell, and Terry. In the mid 1960’s, they made their home in the St. Louis area where they raised their family. Loretta and John shared fifty-three years of marriage and memories together before his passing on September 18, 2007. Loretta worked for several years at the International Shoe Factory in Salem, and JCPenney in St. Louis, but her primary role was being a dedicated housewife and homemaker. She took great pride in supporting her husband, raising her sons, and caring for her home. Loretta truly loved spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed playing all types of board games, dominos, card games, and plays a mean game of Canasta. Some of her favorite past time memories were on family fishing trips. Her grandsons, great-grandchildren, and great-great-granddaughter brought great joy and happiness to her life. Loretta was a lady of great faith. As a young girl, she attended New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Loretta was a dedicated member of Amazing Grace Baptist Church and attended faithfully until her health no longer allowed. Loretta entered eternal rest July 27, 2023, in Creve Coeur, Missouri, at the age of eighty-eight years. Those left behind to cherish her memory are her loving sons: Dennis Southards and wife Cindy of Salem, MO, Lyndell “Bud” Southards and wife Linda of Troy, MO, and Terry Southards and wife Angela of St. Peters, MO; grandsons: Ryan Southards of Grafton, IL, Drew Southards and wife Fabiola of St. Peters, MO, Trevor Southards of Troy, MO, Alex Southards of Salem, MO, Erik Southards and wife Jessica of Radcliff, KY, and Trenton Southards and wife Cassie of Troy, MO; great-grandchildren: Tyler and Abbie, Luca, Layla, Gabriel, Adeline, Jack, Isaiah, and Silas; great-great-granddaughter: Ryleigh; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Preceding her in death were her loving husband: John Southards; parents; Claude and Mildred Ferrell; and sister: Beverly Flett. Loretta was meticulous for details, strong willed and very independent. She will be remembered for her large personality, beautiful smile, and love for the Lord. Loretta will be forever missed by those who loved her most. Funeral Services for Loretta Jane (Ferrell) Southards were held Tuesday, August 1, 2023, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Brian Andrews and Pastor Erik Southards officiating. Special music was provided by Angela Southards. Serving as Pallbearers were Ryan Southards, Drew Southards, Trevor Southards, Alex Southards, Erik Southards, and Trenton Southards. Burial was in the New Hope Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Loretta Southards to Evelyn’s House/BJC Hospice and left at Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Online Condolences may be entered at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Loretta Jane (Ferrell) Southards

June 13, 1935 - July 27, 2023