OBITUARIES

James Leroy Jordan, known affectionately as Leroy, age 79, of Oronogo, departed this life peacefully with the love of his family by his side in the comfort of his home on Wednesday evening, March 5, 2025, after a long illness. He entered this life on May 28, 1945, in Duenweg to the union of the late Earl and Viola (Chrisman) Jordan.

Leroy was a lifelong resident of Oronogo. His love story with Kay McKee blossomed into a marriage on July 2, 1966, and together they welcomed two daughters, Missy and Jayme. Leroy’s commitment to his family was the cornerstone of his existence, and he was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Kay Jordan; his daughters, Missy Gramley and her husband Kyle, of Carthage, and Jayme Shanks and her husband Jeff, of Webb City; three grandchildren, Trevor Shanks and his fiancée Courtney, Briar Short and his wife Kalysha, and Ripley Shanks; and one great-granddaughter, Vayia Shanks; a sister, Hazel Banks, Carl Junction; and a brother, Robert Jordan and his wife Brenda, Carthage. His life was enriched by a host of other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Leroy was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Walt, Marvin and Carl Ray Jordan; five sisters, Lois, Wanda, Helen, Inez and Virginia; his father and mother in-law, Mike and Helen McKee; and a son in-law, Wade Short.

Professionally, Leroy retired in 2007 after 35 years of dedicated service with Cardinal Scales in Webb City. His work ethic and reliability were hallmarks of his career, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

Leroy was a talented musician with a passion for classic country music. He sang and played bass for numerous bands. He was an avid fan of the Kanssas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals. He was a constant presence at his grandchildren’s sporting events, capturing every moment with his camera.

Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 13, 2025, in Oronogo Cemetery, with Chaplain Paul Milliken officiating. Pallbearers will be Jeff Shanks, Trevor Shanks, Briar Short, Dale Crane, George Mayes and Rick Prigg.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Oronogo Cemetery Care Fund in care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Phoenix Hospice for the exceptional care they provided for Leroy.