James W. Hastings

James W Hastings, 90, of Poplar Bluff, passed away Saturday, October 17, 2015 at the Manor in Poplar Bluff.

Mr. Hastings was born September 1, 1925 in Poplar Bluff and was orphaned at an early age. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff and had retired from Commerce Bank with over 37 years of employment. He was an ordained General Baptist Deacon, served on the General Baptist Ministers Aid Board and was a member of Gideon's International. Mr. Hastings was a life member of the Optimists International, a 32nd Mason and Scottish rite. He was a graduate of Poplar Bluff High School Class of 1944 and was drafted out of his senior class. He served with the Army's 63rd infantry under General Paton at the Battle of the Bulge and was awarded a European African Middle Eastern Theatre Ribbon with 2 Bronze Stars, World War II Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal and 2 overseas Bars. He obtained an Associate degree at the Bluff City Business College in accounting.

On July 10, 1944 he married Gladys May Booker in Arkansas. She preceded him in death on Nov. 24, 1978.

On Feb. 16, 1979 he married Marilyn (Stone) Brown Hastings of Poplar Bluff, and she survives.

Other survivors include two sons: Dr. Michael Hastings and Randy Hastings of Poplar Bluff, three step daughters: Sandy Brown, Karen (Dennis) Hast, and Ruth Brown all of Poplar Bluff; six grandchildren; 14 great- grandchildren; and one great- great- grandchild.

A son, Larry David Hastings preceded him in death on October 3, 2011, as well as a step son, Don W Brown Sr. on March 18, 2014; and two brothers, Alvin Hastings and David Lee Hastings.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Cotrell Funeral Chapel in Poplar Bluff.

The Funeral Service will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday in the funeral home chapel with Dr. William Vail officiating. Burial will be at City Cemetery in Poplar Bluff.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital P.O. Box 1000 Memphis, Tenn. 38101.