(From Clark Funeral Home)Terry Daryl Slinkard, 84, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026. He was born July 13, 1942, in Grand Junction, Colorado, to Virgil L. Slinkard and Laura Ellen (Williams) Slinkard.
After moving to Jane, MO in 1946, Terry attended Pineville High School and graduated in 1960. He moved to California after high school and lived there until he served in the Army where he was stationed in Salzburg, Germany from 1964 to 1966, He then moved with his wife to Neosho, MO and started working for Talbot Wire from 1966 to 1974. He later attended Crowder College and studied engineering.
His line of work took him to a few different places over the years that included Russell, KS followed by Fort Scott, KS and Sapulpa,OK. He ultimately landed back close to his hometown in Neosho, Mo in 1982 where his career took him back to Talbot Wire until 1993. He briefly moved to Springfield,MO to help start up LAJET Inc. until 1997. He returned to work in Neosho,MO where he helped establish K&S Wire in 1997 and worked there until he retired in 2006. He had the mind of an engineer so he could fix or build anything. He demonstrated exceptional workmanship and made sure that everything he fixed or made himself was of pristine quality. He had been working on rebuilding a 1954 Chevrolet pickup for the last few years.
On September 9, 1966, Terry married his beloved wife, Lois Ann (Taylor) Slinkard in Miami, Oklahoma. Together, they built a beautiful life and home The couple shared nearly 60 wonderful years of marriage, a testament to mutual devotion. Together, they raised three children teaching them the importance of family. He was a doting grandparent to his six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren
Terry is survived by his children, Marty Slinkard (Stacy) of Duenweg, MO, Dawn Bishop (Mike) of Olathe, KS, and Daphne Decker (Donnie) of Republic, MO; his grandchildren, McCoy Slinkard (Tracie), Blake Bishop, Alyssa Decker, Luke Bishop, Megan Decker, and Claire Bishop; his great-grandchildren, Gavin Slinkard and Swadyn Slinkard; a few sister/brothers-in-law, numerous nieces and nephews, and several bonus grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Bill, Leland, and Tom Slinkard; and his son-in-law, Tim Bishop.
Terry was a man who loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He was a gifted storyteller who could bring a smile to those around him with the stories he shared. However, his favorite stories were the ones in which he talked about his amazing grandchildren and his sweet great-grandchildren. He exuded pride when talking about each one of them. He held the special title “Papa Terry” to many bonus grandchildren over the years who loved his quick wit and tall tales. Above all, Terry was known for his generous heart, his willingness to help others, and the kindness he showed to those in need.
On September 9, 1966, Terry married his beloved wife, Lois Ann (Taylor) Slinkard in Miami, Oklahoma. Together, they built a beautiful life and home The couple shared nearly 60 wonderful years of marriage, a testament to mutual devotion. Together, they raised three children teaching them the importance of family. He was a doting grandparent to his six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren
Terry is survived by his children, Marty Slinkard (Stacy) of Duenweg, MO, Dawn Bishop (Mike) of Olathe, KS, and Daphne Decker (Donnie) of Republic, MO; his grandchildren, McCoy Slinkard (Tracie), Blake Bishop, Alyssa Decker, Luke Bishop, Megan Decker, and Claire Bishop; his great-grandchildren, Gavin Slinkard and Swadyn Slinkard; a few sister/brothers-in-law, numerous nieces and nephews, and several bonus grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Bill, Leland, and Tom Slinkard; and his son-in-law, Tim Bishop.
Terry was a man who loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He was a gifted storyteller who could bring a smile to those around him with the stories he shared. However, his favorite stories were the ones in which he talked about his amazing grandchildren and his sweet great-grandchildren. He exuded pride when talking about each one of them. He held the special title “Papa Terry” to many bonus grandchildren over the years who loved his quick wit and tall tales. Above all, Terry was known for his generous heart, his willingness to help others, and the kindness he showed to those in need.
His memory will be cherished by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Terry’s many stories will continue to be told, and his pickup truck will get finished so that his family can go for an evening ride with the windows rolled down listening to some good music.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a time of visitation on Saturday, August 22, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am at Clark Funeral Home, 312 S. Wood St. Neosho,MO. Following the visitation, a service celebrating Terry’s life and legacy will commence at 10:30 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in Terry’s honor be made to Charlie 22, a non-profit organization that provides free, outdoor activities and retreats for military veterans and their families.

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