Monday, March 30, 2026

Gary James 1944-2026

Gary Ellis James was born on December 27, 1944, in Denver, Colorado to Carl and Madeline (Lambert) James. He passed away at the age of 81 on March 28, 2026 at his home in Sheridan, MO surrounded by family.

Gary graduated from Sheridan High School in 1962. He then attended Northwest Missouri State College. He was employed by MFA Agri-Service for 40 years, retiring on November 15, 2006.

Gary was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Vetra Kay Goff, on January 5, 1966. To this union, two children were born, Troy James and Julie (James) Ragan.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Mary Caldwell, brother-in-law, Richard Caldwell, and brother and sister-in-law, Kenny and Ruby Goff.

Gary is survived by his wife of 60 years, Vetra, son, Troy (Brandy) James, Stanberry, MO and daughter, Julie (Troy) Ragan, Grant City, MO. Grandchildren, Akaysha (Ben) Diekmann, Fulton, MO, Zach Ragan, Maryville, MO, and Aubrey Ragan (Josh Hughes), Auxvasse, MO. Step-grandchildren, Morgan (Gerry) O’Grady, Sheridan, MO, Keltan Munns, Maryville, MO, and Aeriell Munns, Stanberry, MO. Great grandchildren, Ragan Diekmann, Maylie Hughes and soon to arrive Cameron Ellis Diekmann. Step-great grandchildren, Maverick, Joseph and Lillyan Faye O’Grady and Liam Bruce. Nephew, Greg (Lisa) Caldwell, Columbia, MO.

His body has been cremated under the care of Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home, Grant City, MO. At his request, there will be no funeral service. The family will hold a private inurnment at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Mosaic Life Care Hospice, 5506 Corporate Drive, Suite 1600, St. Joseph, MO 64507.

 

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