James LeRoy “Roy” Hargis, Sr. 1923-2010

James LeRoy “Roy” Hargis, Sr., son of the late Robert L. and Mary Margaret (Page) Hargis, was born July 15, 1923 in Hooker, Missouri. He went home to be with his Lord at 8:30 A.M. Wednesday, July 21, 2010 in the General Baptist Nursing Home of Campbell, Missouri at the age of 87 years and 6 days.

Roy grew up in the Hooker and Devil’s Elbow area and attended Hooker School. At the age of 17 on December 5, 1941, Roy entered the United States Navy and served his country faithfully until his honorable discharge on October 22, 1945. During his service, Roy spent the majority of his time on the USS Colorado battleship and served during World War II. For his faithful service, he earned several awards and commendations, which include the Philippine Liberation Ribbon (1 star), American Defense Ribbon, American Area Ribbon, Asiatic Pacific Ribbon (6 stars), and the Good Conduct Medal. He had attained the rank of Seaman First Class.

After a whirlwind romance, Roy married the love of his life, Gladys Berniece Warnol, on December 28, 1945 in Dixon, Missouri. They shared over 64 years of marriage together and many wonderful memories. They were blessed with two children: James (Jimmy) and Phyllis J. Hargis.

In 1950 while living in Michigan, Roy made a very important decision in his life and accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior and was baptized at the Fenton Lawn Baptist Church. After returning to Missouri, he united with the Calvary Baptist Church in Hooker.

In 1952, Roy began working for Civil Service on Fort Leonard Wood as a plumber and pipefitter. He retired in 1976 after 24 years. In his spare time, Roy enjoyed spending time outdoors while hunting and fishing. After moving to Campbell, Missouri in 2002, Roy and Gladys began attending First Baptist Church. Most importantly, he treasured those times that he could spend with his family and friends. He will be sadly missed by all those that knew and loved him.

Roy leaves to cherish his memory his wife: Gladys Hargis of the home; one daughter: Phyllis Hargis of Farmington, MO; one brother: Robert K. Hargis of Dixon, MO; one sister: Connie Hendrix of Linn Creek, MO; one granddaughter: Gwen Hargis Saunders; two great grandsons: Joshua and Austin Saunders; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Roy was preceded in death by his son: James L. Hargis, Jr.; two sisters: May Hargis Curtis and Joan Hargis Ross.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, July 24, 2010 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville/St. Robert with Rev. Don Martin officiating. The songs “Amazing Grace” and “When We All Get to Heaven” were sung by Charles, Linda and Charla Warnol. Serving as escorts were Kenneth Warnol, Edward Saunders, Leonard Vinson, Carl Warnol, Roy Dale Shelden and Mark Shelden. Serving as honorary escorts were Edwin Sheldon, Jerry Sheldon, Andrew Shelden and Mark Thiltgen.

Burial with military honors followed in the Waynesville Memorial Park Cemetery. Honors were provided by the American Legion Post of Richland and the United States Navy. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville/St. Robert.