Vernon Joy Putnam was born on October 18, 1946 in Collins, Missouri to John and Easter (Bishop) Putnam. He passed away on November 8, 2021 in Osceola, Missouri.
Vernon began his education at the Rainey School. He attended Osceola High School from 9th-12th grade, graduating in 1964. In 1972 Vernon graduated from the University of Central Missouri with a B.S.E. in Industrial Arts. He earned a M.S.E. from William Woods University in High School Administration.
Vernon had a wide-range of work experiences. After graduating from high school, he worked for the International Shoe Company in El Dorado Springs. He also was the owner of an auto body shop on Prospect Avenue in Kansas City. Later, he ran the Osceola DX Service Station, the location where he met his future wife. Vernon also served as the Saint Clair County Treasurer and was a member of the Republican Central Committee.
Vernon taught in several Missouri school districts, with twenty-five years at Osceola and Montrose, combined. He held numerous responsibilities, most notably Junior Class Sponsor.
A collector of many and varied things was Vernon’s specialty, the more unusual the better. He was an avid reader and authority on local and Civil War history. Vernon enjoyed debating anyone, on any subject. He had a heart for helping others and did many kind acts most people were unaware of.
Vernon made his profession of faith in Jesus as a youth and was baptized in Coon Creek. He enjoyed bible study sessions at Hopewell Baptist and visits from missionaries at Freedom Tabernacle. Vernon held a deep love for his family and looked forward to visits with the grandkids. He challenged them to catch a big fish, every summer.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Easter Putnam; brother Larry Putnam and sister Jonice Putnam Egbert.
Survivors include his wife of forty-four years, Janice; daughter Stacey Ross (Mike) of St. Charles; daughter Susan Kleps (Jason) of Jenks, OK; son John of Leesville, LA; grandchildren Julia and Asher Kleps; Tesla and Lincoln Putnam; Jack and Charlie Ross; bonus granddaughter Aurabelle Miller, Brother, Danny (Kathy) Putnam of Belton.
Condolences(8)-
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Donna Houston says
November 9, 2021 at 11:58 amI am very sorry to lose Vernie as we were always buddies.and I can\t imagine a day without him. After all he has been through this last year or so I am glad he didn’t have to suffer more. If you need anything that I can do for you just call me. Donna
Cheryl Edwards says
November 9, 2021 at 12:08 pmJanice and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.
Cheryl
Margo Norvell says
November 9, 2021 at 5:55 pmDear Janice and Family – I am so sorry to learn of Vernon’s passing. You had many wonderful years, grew a lovely family and made many memories together. It is joy to know you will be reunited one day when there will be no sickness, suffering or death. Not much I can do from so far away but I will be thinking of you and praying. When things shift back to “normal”, give me a call so we can chat a bit. Hugs and love-
Betty Wiles says
November 10, 2021 at 7:09 amJanice & Family,
It saddens me to hear of Vernon passing.
Will miss class of ’64 classmate.
My sincere sympathy, thoughts, & prayers
are with you.
Margo Norvell says
November 9, 2021 at 6:33 pmDear Janice and family – I am so sorry to learn of Vernon’s sudden passing. Janice, the two of you had many wonderful years together as your raised your family and stored up baskets of memories. One day you will be reunited in that city where Jesus is the light, and there will be no more sickness, suffering or death, Just now there is a big hole in your heart to which I know the Holy Spirit will bring comfort and peace. Sending my condolences, hugs and love. Margo
Tina Leiber says
November 12, 2021 at 7:08 amJanice and Family,
I was so sorry to hear of Vernie’s passing. I remember him as my shop teacher in jr. high. Then, through the years, whenever I’d see him, he was always so kind to ask about Dad or Mom or Aunt Gail. He will be missed. Please know you’re in our thoughts and prayers.
Tina & JR Leiber
Linda Jackson says
November 12, 2021 at 11:10 amJanice and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Vernon. Not only was he a classmate of mine but a good friend. He was always so respectful but was very knowledgeable on a number of subjects. I’m so sorry I am unable to attend his service but I am currently unable to walk but hope that will not be the case after Tuesday’s back surgery.
Please know my thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Linda Jackson
Carol Kinser says
November 14, 2021 at 4:21 pmI’m so sorry for your loss. We both started our education at the Rainey schoolhouse as classmates through graduation. I’m so proud of his accomplishments and overcoming a serious stuttering problem. I recall sometimes completing his sentences for him on the playground. He was fearless on the merry go round. Vernie’s grandparents were our closest neighbors. I loved going to their house to see the chickens and tobacco leaves hanging up to dry in the barn. He sure!y set a good example for his children. God bless you all.
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