Gary Gene Bumpus

On Friday, May 29, 2020, Gary Gene Bumpus, loving father of Josie, passed away at the age of 47, from a heart attack.

Gary was born on October 8, 1972 in Poplar Bluff to Joyce Bettuo and Ernest Gene Bumpus.  He attended school in Poplar Bluff, advanced to Eagle Scout in Boys Scouts of America, and played summer baseball throughout his youth, along with so many members of the community he would know and befriend throughout his life. On December 26, 2008 his only child, Josie Bumpus, was born, and she would remain the light of Gary’s life thereafter.

Gary had a passion for fishing, marksmanship, and automobiles. Not one to be found in the house on a beautiful day, Gary was often found either helping his mother with her yard and garden or sharing outdoor pastimes with his daughter.  Gary was also a music lover and a skilled guitarist, passions suited for Gary’s sociable nature and his love of sharing good times with family and friends.  Gary loved to make others laugh, and was known for his quick wit, big smile, and keen memory and talent for stories and witticisms.  Many will fondly remember Gary’s quick jokes, often when least expected, as well as his great pleasure in telling humorous or riveting stories.

Gary is preceded in death by his father, Gene Bumpus.  He is survived by his mother Joyce Bettuo, his daughter Josie Bumpus, his sisters Sandra Polanco, Tonya Winters, Gina O’Sickey, and Sherry Brookreson, as well as several uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Due to the concerns related to the health crisis, the family has elected to hold a private celebration of life.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to a fund to be set up for the care of his daughter. For further details please contact Cotrell Funeral Service at 573-785-8484.

Cotrell Funeral Service is honored to serve the family of Gary Gene Bumpus.