Gary Durham

Gary Durham, 69, of Sullivan, MO, passed away Thursday, December 30, 2021 at Mercy Hospital – Springfield.

Gary Joe was born on September 25, 1952 in Piedmont, MO. He grew up and attended school in Sullivan and graduated from Sullivan High School with the class of 1970. As a young man he went to work as a long hole driller at the Pea Ridge Mine. When the mine closed, Gary attended Linn Tech where he obtained his vocational degree in precision machining.

Gary was united in marriage to Debbie Reed on September 29, 1973 and to their union two sons were born, Tony and Jason. He later married the love of his life, Debbie Immekus, on November 21, 1980 and together they had a son, Jacob. Gary was employed by Carden Machine Shop in Sullivan for many years. He then went on to work for GH Tool and Mold until his retirement in August of 2018. In retirement, he was an Adjunct Professor at East Central College, teaching Precision Machining. 

Gary loved playing golf, fantasy football, and traveling as a couple with friends. Some of his most memorable trips were to Hawaii, Alaska and Southwest United States. He was also a very talented, self-taught chef, including becoming a master baker who was known for his “killer cheesecakes”!

Gary had a heart of gold and was loved by all who knew him. He was the type to have never met a stranger and was most willing to help and give of himself to others. Gary loved the Lord and his faith was important in his life. He was an involved member of New Testament Baptist Church, helping in many areas, including being the head of hospitality. Most meaningful to Gary was his love for Debbie. He was always by her side and desired the best for her. The two enjoyed life together and shared a lifetime of memories. Gary will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family and friends.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Debbie; his three sons: Tony Durham and wife Cassie of Commerce, OK, Jason Durham and wife Jessica of Stillwater, OK and Jacob Durham of the family home in Sullivan; two sisters, Donna Harmon of Indian Land, SC and Georgia Jordan and husband George of Villa Ridge, MO; two sisters-in-law, Susie Hahn of Wentzville, MO and Kelly Watson and husband Curt of Sullivan, MO; two step-siblings, Tom Webb and wife Charlotte of Holt Summit, MO and Janet Bolling of Sullivan; parents-in-law, Eugene and Carol Immekus of Sullivan, MO; ten grandchildren: Mikah, Felicia, Rhyane, Ethan, Avery, Cade, Carter, Logan, Kolten and Emmett; two great-grandchildren, Kashton and Sawyer; numerous nieces & nephews, other extended relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by a stillborn infant daughter, Carol Jean; his mother and stepfather, Lois and Frank Webb; a brother, Bob Hahn; and a step-brother, Willie Webb.

Funeral Services were 10 a.m., Thursday, January 6, 2022 at New Testament Baptist Church in Sullivan, with Pastors Josh Wright and David Wright officiating. Cremation took place following the service with inurnment at I.O.O.F Cemetery at a later date.

Visitation was held from 4 p.m. - 8p.m., Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at New Testament Baptist Church.

Memorial contributions in Gary’s memory may be made to the New Testament Baptist Church Philippine Mission Fund.

Friends may send online condolences to Gary’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Sullivan.