David Crocker

(From Knell Mortuary)

David Lee Crocker, 69, Joplin, MO, passed away Friday January 19, 2024, at his home. Dave was born in July, 1954 in Carthage, MO, the 4th of 6 children of James Leroy and Donna (Pfenninger) Crocker. Most of Dave’s childhood was in Carthage before moving with his family to Raytown, MO, then on to Springfield, MO for his High School years where he met Debbie. They married in 1974 at ages 19 and 17, and were ecstatic to finally welcome a son, Barry (B.J.) in 1981.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Deborah Crocker, Joplin, Son Barry (B.J.) Crocker (Aleksandra), Bentonville, AR, and Grandsons Ezra and Mitchell Crocker, Pittsburg, Kansas.

Siblings: Mary (Rick) Shewmake, Janice Sue Hess, Nancy Frasier (Doug Ellis), Dan (Michaelle) Crocker, Jim’s wife Lois (Jeanie) Crocker, and many nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jim Crocker; and brother in-law, Jim Hess.

Dave was a salesman most of his life, always making new friends. His sales job moved the family to Joplin in 1982.There they built a beautiful life with B.J. and made many lifelong friends. When vision problems ended Dave’s driving, he and Debbie started a small business together. She was happy to be his chauffeur and working sidekick for 20 years. 

They happily retired in time to babysit their two grandsons before their school years. They cherished that time and have millions of photos to prove it. Both are now shining students at Pittsburg State University, KS. Grandpa was beyond proud of both. If you knew Dave, you heard an abundance of prideful stories about his family. He enjoyed bicycle rides all over the country with Debbie and B.J., target shooting, music of all genres, morning coffee with dear friends, driveway meetings with neighbors, and treasured the friendship of their couple’s bunco group of 32 years.

Visitation will be held 4-6pm, Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at Knell Mortuary, Carthage, MO. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. The family would like to thank Compassus Hospice for their loving care provided in his final days at home.




“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” - Dr. Seuss