Ernest DeGraffenreid

Ernest Ernie DeGraffenreid, age 86, of Bolivar, Missouri died Sunday, May 10, 2009 at the Mt. Vernon Veterans Home in Mt. Vernon, Missouri. He was born April 28, 1923 in Aldrich, Missouri, the son of George DeGraffenreid and Nora (Derossett) DeGraffenreid. He married Wilma Jean Mitchell on November 16, 1947 in Bolivar, Missouri. They have one son, Rick DeGraffenreid. He retired from Southwest Baptist University after 23 years as Director of Housekeeping Services and was Assistant Director to the Physical Plant, retiring in 1985. His life filled with serving others, beginning with his country from January 1943 to February 1946 with the 11th Air Force in the United States Army. As a member of First Baptist Church of Bolivar, he served as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and Usher. For over 35 years, Tuesday was Hospital night in Springfield. He and L.D. Silvey began the First Baptist Church Ministry together, faithfully serving along with other Deacons including John Playter. He was a member and past President of the Rotary Club. He served as a Master for both Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. His hobbies included collecting pens, pocketknives and watching SBU Basketball. His parents and two sisters, Irene Bruce and Evelyn Watkins, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Wilma Jean DeGraffenreid of the home, one son, Rick L. DeGraffenreid of Quantico, Virginia, nephews, Gene Bruce of Iowa, Kenneth Bruce of Brighton, George Bruce of Urbana, Robert Watkins of Independence, two nieces, Evelyn Camp of Springfield, Mary Bruce of Fordland, Missouri. Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm, Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at the Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar, Missouri with Dr. Harlan E. Spurgeon and Reverend Billy Russell officiating. Musical selections will be Because He Lives & How Great Thou Art by Brad Wommack with Rose Roweton playing the piano. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar with Full Military Honors provided at the graveside service by the AMVETS Post #114 of Flemington, Missouri. A visitation will be held on Tuesday evening from 6:00-7:00pm at the Butler Funeral Home Chapel. Pallbearers will be Gene Bruce, Ken Bruce, George Bruce, Buford Curl, L.D. Silvey and Gary Mitchell. The family suggests contributions to the Alzheimers Association, Southwest Missouri Chapter, Glen Isle Center, 1500 S. Glenstone, Springfield, Missouri 65804. Friends and family may sign the guestbook or send private condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com PDF Printable Version

Ernest DeGraffenreid

April 28, 1923 - May 10, 2009