Clarence Oneil Sullivan

Clarence Oneil Sullivan, 82, formally of Naylor, Mo., passed away January 29, 2016 in Poplar Bluff, Mo. He was born September 11, 1933, in Hickory Flat, Ms., to the late Jessie Wyatt Sullivan and Lucille (Edwards) Sullivan. On November 12, 1957, in Hernando, Ms., he married Loretta (Young) Sullivan. She survives. He is also survived by his sons, Roger Sullivan and wife, Terrie of Poplar Bluff and Steve Sullivan and wife, Tammy, also of Poplar Bluff, one sister, Carol (Sullivan) Sturgis of Enid, Ms.; his grandchildren, Jeff Sullivan and wife, Chasidy, Stephanie (Sullivan) Edwards and husband, Mike, Miranda Sullivan, Melissa (Sullivan) Arrington and husband, Josh and Makayla Sullivan; as well as seven great-grandchildren, Shelby, Faith, Haley, Harley, Colby, Chase and Cynthia. He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as one brother, Harold Sullivan Sr. Oneil served in the United States Navy. He moved to Naylor, in 1954, when he began farming; meeting and marrying the love of his life. Together they raised two sons and taught them the value of family and hard work. He was more than a dad he was their role model and best friend. When he became a PaPa, he was complete. He wanted to see his family succeed and encouraged them to do so. Good conversation and laughter was always in the Sullivan home. He definitely was a family man and loved each one dearly. For 37 years he was known in the Naylor area for growing watermelons. He, Rodger, Steve and his brother-in-law, Glen Young, along with Loretta and Terrie grew the best melons to be found. Many young boys have worked for him and have many memorable stories to tell of pitching and hauling watermelons. In 1974 they were honored as the Ripley Co. Farm Management Family of the year. He served on many boards over the years including, Naylor School Board, Naylor Drainage District and Farmers Home Administration. He was co-owner of Fowler-Sullivan Funeral Home in Neelyville and Poplar Bluff. He found a need in the area for the funeral homes to be a service to the community. Oneil was a member of the Palace of Praise Church in Poplar Bluff. He enjoyed his church and visiting with friends and family. He also enjoyed bird hunting and deer hunting. Visitation will be held at 5 p.m. Monday, February 1, 2016, at Fowler-Sullivan Memorial Chapel in Neelyville. The funeral service will begin at 10 a.m. Tuesday, February 2, 2016 in the chapel, with Bishop Kent Miller and Rev. Randy West officiating. Eulogies will be given by Donnie Fowler and Ronnie Fowler. Burial will follow in the Naylor Memorial Cemetery.