Everett Holden

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Everett Gene Holden, age 94, of Webb City, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Wednesday, January 14th, following a sudden illness.

Gene was born October 22, 1931 in Joplin, MO to the late Ray and Josephine (Jeans) Holden and grew up in Prosperity, MO. He graduated from Carterville, MO High School in 1950 and served in the Army from 1952-1954. Gene married Rosemary Passley in Purcell, MO on October 8, 1954. He was a master machinist for most of his life, retiring from Safeway Bakery in 1996.

Gene was a devoted Christian and was a long time member of First Baptist Church of Webb City; serving many years as a Sunday School Teacher but his passion was singing in the choir. He was also a 50 year member of the Masons and Eastern Star, both of Alba, MO. He and Rosemary volunteered many years at Webster Primary School and Eugene Field School receiving the Friend of Education Award presented by the Webb City Community Teachers Association in 2000. He also volunteered with the industrial arts program at Webb City High School.

Gene is survived by his daughter, Denise Endicott and husband Norman of Joplin; sisters, Betty McDaniel of Adkins, TX and Letha Smith of Joplin, MO; his grandchildren, Vance Endicott, Laura Endicott, and Garrett Endicott as well as ten great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by his brother William “Billy” Holden, sister Bessie Gregory and son, Douglas Eugene Holden.

The family will receive friends at 1:00 Monday, January 19th at Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City with the funeral service to follow. Kyle Beverlin is officiating. Burial will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Gene has requested donations be made to the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home.