Rusty Winchester

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Russell “Rusty” G. Winchester was born in Neosho, Missouri on March 31, 1961, and passed away in Neosho, Missouri on April 22, 2026. He did a lot of cowboying in his 65 years and 22 days on this earth. He was the only child born to James “Jim” and Janet D. (Fritchey) Winchester.

Rusty grew up in Neosho where he attended and graduated from Neosho High School. From a young age he loved cowboying. He had a way with animals, especially horses. He loved riding and working horses. He learned to train cutting horses and was well known for his ability to do so. He started working locally, and when an opportunity arose to work further south, he took it. Rusty followed his work south, first to Arkansas, and then on to Texas. He enjoyed all aspects of the rodeo life.

His biggest accomplishment was his son, Jacob. He taught Jake how to do all the important things, like how to drive a stick shift, how to weld, and the basics of plumbing. He left a priceless family heirloom, his beloved saddle, to Jake.

When he got a little too old to rodeo and train horses, Rusty turned his attention from training horses to training dogs. He trained Border Collies to work cattle. He never lost his touch with animals. Once again, he followed work, this time working his way back north. He moved back to Arkansas, and finally, back home to Neosho where he lived out the rest of his life.

Rusty is survived by his son, Jacob Winchester and his partner Heather Clark of Fowler, Colorado. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Janet Winchester.

No services planned at this time.