John Eatherton

In his final act of stubbornness, John William Eatherton passed away Saturday, August 13, 2022. Born in St. Louis to the late Edwin and Sofrona Eatherton on March 8, 1955, he was the only one out of five children to be born in a hospital - he was always a little off and special. Surviving are his sisters Patti and Mary Jane. John was preceded in death by his parents and older brothers Jimmy and Dickie.

John and his Lucy (Patty) were married in Texas in April, 1986. It took entirely too long for them to remember the exact day they got married, but it was the 24th. In the thirty-five plus years John and Patty were together they raised some pretty awesome kids (Ben, Steven, Loretta, Tori, and Brenda) who in turn raised even better grand-kids, who are now raising the best great grand-kids.

John grew up in the St. Louis area later moving to Ripley Co., Mo where he raised his family. As empty nesters, he and Patty moved to his beloved Branson only to return to Ripley Co to be near family. Throughout his life John held several jobs but driving a school bus was his most memorable and he kept in touch with many of his bus kids.

John loved his family and would help anytime he could. One of his favorite things to do at family gatherings was to help his loved ones eat all of their food, especially if that meant getting most of it on their face. John gave great advice, but it would probably land you in jail. He was a devoted friend and was lucky he found ones that put up with his cranky attitude, stubbornness, and strange sense of humor. John made sure to give everyone encouragement and he often told people they were #1.

John didn’t want a service, but much to his disappointment, a celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, September 17, at Hyde A Way Catfish Inn, Broseley, Mo (time to be determined). John wasn’t much on formality and you are encouraged wear the most inappropriate t-shirt you can find. He could get pretty much any plant to grow, and you’d always leave with at least one after visiting him. So, unless they’re cool plants no flowers, please. If you feel compelled to spend your hard-earned money to honor his memory, donations may be sent to Brenda at 3701 W Sugar Tree Ln, Columbia, Mo 65201.