Donald James Worley, 86, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri passed away Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022, at his home.
Don was born Sept. 29, 1936, to Shelby and Roma Worley in Poplar Bluff. He married Barbara Killian Aug. 12, 1982.
Don was a member of Liberty Baptist Church and was a life-long farmer. He loved being surrounded by his family and visiting the casinos at Tunica and Cape Girardeau. Don loved playing the card game pitch with his friends and acquaintances in Missouri and Arkansas and was known to have his name engraved on the Pitch Traveling Trophy more than anyone else. Don served in the United States Army from 1954-1957. He went to boot camp at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and then was stationed in Germany for two years. When asked what his greatest accomplishment was during this time he proudly stated, “building a foot bridge across the Danube River in 8 minutes”. He was also a member of the American Legion and Eagles Lodge.
Donald is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; two daughters, Brenda Worley, and Becky Smith; three sons, Curtis (Cindy) Worley, Jake (Tonya) Worley, and Chris (Debbie) Solomon; two stepchildren, Brian (Denise) Tipton and Jeff (Kelly) Tipton; brother, Glenn (Beth) Worley; 19 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and two sisters-in-law, Renie Osborn and Margaret Worley.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ronnie Worley; sister, Patsy Ruble; four brothers-in-law, Bob Ruble, Sonny Osborn, Don Killian, and Dale Killian; mother-in-law, Ellen Killian; son-in-law, Larry Smith.
Visitation will be held from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, 2022, at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral will follow beginning at 1 p.m. with Pastor Ronnie Webb officiating and family friend Dr. Michael Caldwell speaking. Burial will take place at Liberty Community Cemetery where full military honors will be presented.
Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Mr. Donald James Worley. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com.