James Decker Jr.

James (Jim) Walter Decker, Jr., son of the late James Walter Decker and Kathleen McBenge Decker, was born Friday, Feb. 8, 1946, in Steelville, Missouri and departed this life Friday, Nov. 1, 2024, at the Missouri Veteran’s Home in Cape Girardeau at the age of 78 years 8 months 24 days.

Jim served in the 4780th Defense Wing of the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970 and completed a tour in the Vietnam War. He attended Forest Park Community College in 1974 and graduated with a degree in Mortuary Science. He spent 37 years as a funeral director and embalmer. He was a member of Friendship Baptist Church in Kennett.

He is survived by his wife Brenda of 53 years; one daughter Stephanie Butler (Shane) of Kennett; two sons, Jamie Decker of Kennett and Jason Decker (Angela) of Wentzville, Missouri; six grandchildren, Jared Butler (Lexi), Connor Butler, Taylor

Lauria (Jake), Landon Decker, Katherine and Natalie Decker; two great-grandsons, Carter Butler and Eli Lauria; one sister, Jane Crum of Rolla, Missouri.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Kathy McCann, and one nephew Mike Pounds.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, at the Missouri Veteran’s Cemetery in Bloomfield with Rev. Chris Maynard officiating.

Visitation was to be 5 -8 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, Powell Funeral Chapel in Kennett. Burial will be in the Missouri Veteran’s Cemetery in Bloomfield.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to Missouri Veteran’s Home in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.

Powell Funeral & Cremation Services, Kennett is in charge of arrangements.