Jack Woolever

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jack Woolever died Friday, the 22nd of June, at his home in Joplin. He was 84 years old. He was born on a cold winter’s day in December, 1933, the youngest of six children. His father, Floyd Woolever was a miner, he died of black lung when Jack was just a boy. His mother Ruby, was a domestic worker, and although she died back in 1957, Jack said he could still hear her voice. He told his family recently, “She was calling him home.”

All five of Jack’s brothers and sisters preceded him in death.

In January, 1951, Jack skipped his senior year of high school and enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country in French Morocco, North Africa, during the Korean War.

On July 2nd, 1955, he married Claudeania Chatham, also of Joplin. They had four children, and through thick and thin, good times and bad, their family lived the American Dream. They were husband and wife for 53 years until her passing in 2008.

In 2009, Jack married Nita Foster. Nita took good care of Jack through his long illness. She was by his side to the very end.

Jack is survived by Nita (Foster) Woolever, of the home. Four children and their spouses; Stephen Woolever and Leslie, of Tulsa, Ok., Mark Woolever and Julie, of Joplin, Joseph Woolever and Ann, of Columbus, Ks., and Rebecca Woolever, of Joplin. He also had 12 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. He was a blessed man!

Jack was a member of the Gideon’s and loved to give away Bibles. He attended church at the Prairie Flower Bible Church. He was a Christian and he lived his life in the good hand’s of God.

Except for his time in the service, this son of the Show-Me State lived his entire life in the Joplin area. He had many friends and was well liked by all who knew him. He was a simple man, honest, generous and loyal. He loved his family and we loved him too. We will miss him greatly, until that day when we meet again.

For we know the Lord gives, and we know the Lord takes away.
He will restore again! He does all things well.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.