Eldon Myrle Gannaway, son of Floyd Raymond Gannaway and Bessie Lee (Swindler) Gannaway, was
born at home in Dunnegan, Missouri on August 1, 1931, and peacefully passed away on August 2, 2026,
at the age of 95, surrounded by the love of his family. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter,
and unwavering devotion to those he loved. Those who knew Eldon will remember his kind heart,
ornery sense of humor, and beautiful blue eyes.
Eldon was raised in the Bear Creek bottom between Humansville and Stockton along with eight brothers
and sisters. At the age of six, he met his life-long friend and the love of his life, Nada (Taylor) Gannaway,
on a bridge crossing England Creek. As children, Eldon and Nada enjoyed one another while their
families socialized together. At age 13, Eldon moved to Plattsburg, Missouri to live with his sister Marie
and, once again, reconnected with Nada. After a six-month engagement, Eldon and Nada were married
at Preacher Pope’s home in Plattsburg, Missouri on April 15, 1948. They celebrated 73 loving years of
marriage. In 1960, Eldon and Nada moved back to the Bear Creek area, buying a 200-acre farm for $30
per acre. In 1970, the couple purchased their farm in Humansville, Missouri, where they spent the
remainder of their days. Throughout the years, Eldon worked as a farmer, raising tobacco crops, until he
ultimately began his 33-year career with the Missouri State Highway Department. While Eldon took
pride in his career, his greatest years were spent on his farm. He found happiness in life’s simple
pleasures. Whether he was hunting in the woods, casting a fishing line, enjoying a hot cup of coffee each
morning, or gathering around the table for a game of “Wahoo”, he cherished every opportunity to
spend time with family and friends. His famous fish fries brought everyone together, creating full hearts
and stomachs.
Eldon was most known for how big he loved. When Eldon told someone “I love you”, they never had to
question whether he meant it. He was especially proud of his family, which includes wife, Nada (Taylor)
Gannaway; daughter Debra and husband, Dean Henry; grandchildren, Kaleb Henry and Morgan and
husband Austin McKee. Ryder and Copper McKee, great-grandsons, were his pride and joy.
Eldon is preceded in death by his loving wife, Nada Gannaway; his parents, Floyd and Bessie Gannaway;
his brothers Raymond “Bill” Gannaway, James Gannaway, and Roy “Doc” Gannaway; his sisters Stella
“Marie” Taylor, Violet Carey, Fern Dragoo, Zeffie Gallop, and a host of wonderful friends and family. He
is survived by his daughter Debra and husband, Dean Henry; his grandchildren, Kaleb Henry and Morgan
and husband Austin McKee; his great-grandchildren Ryder and Copper McKee; his loving sister Cleo
Tuck, brother-in-laws Paul Taylor (Susan) and James Taylor, several nieces and nephews, and many
wonderful family and friends.
Eldon was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Although
our hearts are heavy, we celebrate his wonderful life and will cherish the many beautiful memories.
Eldon will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
Memorial contributions can be made to; Three Wishes for Ruby’s Residents at 102 W. Stephenson Ave, Harrison, AR 72601 or Baxter Health Foundation 624 Hospital Dr. Mountain Home, AR 72653.
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