Shelby Benton Garner

Shelby Benton Garner Jr., 71, of Poplar Bluff went home to be with Jesus on Sunday, May 16, 2010 at his residence surrounded by love.

Mr. Garner was born Dec. 12, 1938 in Poplar Bluff. He was very active in the ministry of Grace Christian Fellowship in Poplar Bluff, and was owner and operator of Sparkle Shop Auto Sales. Mr. Garner enjoyed drag racing, playing golf, fishing and mostly being a grandpa. He was also a veteran of the U.S. Army having served during the Vietnam Era.

On June 21, 1964 he married the love of his life, best friend and soul mate, Shirley Jean Smith in Alton, Ill. She survives.

His legacy includes his children whom he loved dearly, Rick Edward Garner and wife, Debbie of Cumming, Ga., Craig Allen Garner and wife, Carolsue of Suwanee, Ga., Katrina Jean Garner Hosea and husband Charles E. of Jacksonville, Fla. and Darrin Benton Garner and wife Lori of Poplar Bluff; grandchildren who blessed his life and whom he adored, Jason Wade Garner, Craig Allen Garner, Jr., Brittany Michelle Garner, Brian Scott Garner, Chelsea Ann Garner, Benton Charles Hosea, Jeanann Elizabeth Hosea, Shelby Leigh Hosea and Emily Kathryn Hosea; great-grandchild, Gabriel James Garner; and sister, Ina Lee Christie and husband, Aubrey of Poplar Bluff.

His parents, Shelby Benton and Mamie Alice Ellen (Osborn) Garner, Sr., sister, Minnie Myrtlee Easter and brother, Edward Newell Garner preceded Mr. Garner in death.

The family will receive and visit with friends from 6 - 8 p.m. Thursday at Grace Christian Fellowship, 3200 Warrior Lane (Hwy 67 South) in Poplar Bluff. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 1 p.m. Friday at Grace Christian Fellowship with the Rev. Brian Sharp officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at Black Creek Cemetery in Butler County.

Memorials contributions may be made to Grace Christian Fellowship, 3200 Warrior Lane, Poplar Bluff, MO 63901.

Family and friends may share an online condolence or memory at www.cotrellfuneralservice.com.

Cotrell Funeral Service of Poplar Bluff is in charge of arrangements.