James "Jimmy" Franklin Medearis

James “Jimmy” Franklin Medearis was born in Illinois on August 3, 1936. He was one of two children born to Beatrice Franklin and Marie (Forbes) Medearis. Illinois is where Jimmy grew up and at a young age learned the value of hard work and responsibility. On September 28, 1963, Jimmy was united in marriage to the love of his life, Susan Ann Lampley. To this union they were blessed with eight children: Corrina, Tony, Crystal, Carol, Carmill, Carla, Candice, and Tim. In 1984 they moved to Salem, Missouri, to be closer to family. Jimmy and Susan shared together forty-nine years of lasting memories before her passing November 9, 2012. Jimmy was a dedicated farmer and worked on several farms in Illinois and Missouri. He had a great passion for farming and did so his entire life. His experience was in tending to crops, and raising chickens, pigs, and cattle. Jimmy was passionate about his family and enjoyed family get-togethers. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He cherished his grandchildren, adored his great-grandchildren, and treasured the memories they made together. Jimmy departed this life on March 3, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Cook Station, Missouri, at the age of eighty-seven years. Those left behind to carry on his legacy include his loving children: Corrina Nelson and husband Terry of Illinois, Crystal Pyatt of Cook Station, MO, Carmill Pense of Kansas, Carla Watson of Cook Station, MO, Candice Turner and husband Dale of Salem, MO, and Tim Medearis and wife Jamie of Flatt, MO; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; special friend: Vernon Booker; other relatives and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his wife: Susan Medearis; son: Tony Medearis; infant daughter: Carol Medearis; grandchildren: Charles, Eric, and Carrie, parents: Franklin and Marie Medearis; sister: Elsie Miller; and son-in-law: Michael Pense. Jimmy was the best of the best. He enjoyed life his way and loved his chewing tobacco. He will be forever remembered and greatly missed by those who loved him most. Funeral Services for James “Jimmy” Franklin Medearis were held Monday, March 18, 2024, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Chaplin Dan Phillips officiating. Song selections played were “Go Rest High On That Mountain”, “The Dance”, and “The Old Rugged Cross”. Serving as Pallbearers were Nathaniel Medearis, Elizabeth Becherer, Isabella Laughlin, Andrew Boren, Steven Boren, and Maurick Boren. Honorary Pallbearers were Ava Medearis, Paisley Medearis, Matthew Knipshild, Jeremiah Laughlin, Emma Laughlin, Tinsley Medearis, Madlyn Boren and Charlie Boren. Burial was in the Gladden Empire Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Online Condolences may be entered at www.wilsonmortuary.com

James "Jimmy" Franklin Medearis

August 3, 1936 - March 3, 2024