Jim Cory

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jim “J.R.” Cory passed away on Thursday, May 3, 2018.

Jim was born in Missouri Valley, IA to Relton Lorenzo and Gertrude Edna (Kelsey) Cory. He lived most of his youth in Iowa, attending school at Smithland High School. He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1956 and was honorably discharged after four years.

He eventually settled in Joplin, Missouri where he began his career in the trucking industry. He amassed over four million of accident free miles. He acquired the safety director position at Tri-State Motor Transit. After working at Tri-State for a number of years, he purchased his own trucks and leased them to both CFI and Conway Trucking.

In the early 70’s, he became a member of the BPOE 501 and maintained active membership with the organization. He was also an active member of the Joplin Masonic Lodge 335. He maintained membership in the Valley of Joplin Scottish Rite and also the Springfield Abou Ben Adhem Shrine.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents; maternal and paternal grandparents; one brother, Jerry; two grandsons and several uncles and aunts.

Survivors include his wife, Norma; three daughters, Jackie Corley (Andy), Jennifer Clark (Chad), and Jessica Patrick (Brad); four step-children, Gary Hochstatter, Susan Burns, Mark Hochstatter (Cindi) and Kamero Haverstic (Todd); seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one brother, Jack and two sisters, Joan and Janet.

Visitation is planned for Friday, May 18th from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. at Parker Mortuary. A memorial service with military honors will follow at 6:30 p.m. with Pastor Chris Dines officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Shriner’s Hospital Burn Unit or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in care of the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.