John Kearbey

John Wallace Kearbey, 90, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

John was born Dec. 29, 1934, to John Wilburn Kearbey and Nella Deaton Parkin in Poplar Bluff. He married Arnolee Chatman July 3, 1954, also in Poplar Bluff.

John attended Poplar Bluff Schools. In his early years he worked for Sharp Implement Co., Brosley Implement Co., and Allen Garner Chevrolet. He then joined the Missouri National Guard in 1952 and served for 42 years. He served on shooting teams for the US 5th Army, All Guard, Missouri National Guard, and unit teams. John taught the NRA Junior Rifle classes to children aged 12 and up. He was an avid reader of the Bible.

John is survived by his wife of 70 years, Arnolee; three children, John Wayne (Kathy) Kearbey, Cheryl Matthews (Barry) West and Denis (Pam) Kearbey; seven grandchildren, John Warren Kearbey, Rachel Daniels, Ethan Kearbey, Justin Robert West, Cecelia West, Chad Kearbey, and Amber Holifield; 17 great-grandchildren; one great-great- grandchild; nephew, Stan Berry.

John was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Wilma Eldida Berry.

Visitation will be held from noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025, at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral will follow beginning at 1 p.m. Burial will take place at Bay Springs Cemetery.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is proud to serve the family and friends of Mr. John W. Kearbey.

Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com.