Milford Joseph Levart

Milford Joseph Levart, 97, of Sullivan, MO, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, November 30, 2023. Born on July 9, 1926, in Granite City, Illinois to the Rev. George and Mary (Street) Levart. Milford grew up in the rural landscapes of Missouri, where he attended local country schools near the Patterson/Piedmont area. His early years were marked by a dedication to working alongside his dad learning to make wagon wheels in the blacksmith shop. He also helped when his dad ran a sawmill. He later went with his brother, John, and uncles into the woods to cut the timbers to make ties and fence post.

Milford's strong work ethic was only matched by his love for his country, leading him to serve in the US Army during World War II. He was honorably discharged on August 18, 1946, after valiantly contributing to the efforts of the war. Upon returning to civilian life, a chance encounter in church one sunny Sunday morning changed his life forever. It was there that he met Eleanor Henson, the woman who would become his devoted wife. They were united in marriage on September 8, 1951, and their union was blessed with two children, Kevin and Deborah.

In 1961, Milford and Ellie put down roots in Sullivan, Missouri, where they would spend the rest of their lives together, raising a family grounded in love and faith. Professionally, Milford was a proud member of the Ironworkers Local 396, a testament to his lifelong commitment to craftsmanship and hard work. His dedication to his trade was unwavering until his well-earned retirement in the late 1980s.

Retirement brought new adventures for Milford and Ellie.  They spent cherished times at their second home at Lake of the Ozarks, along memorable trips to South Carolina to visit Ellie’s sister Erma and husband Vernon.  These years were golden, filled with companionship and love.

Being an avid fisherman and hunter, Milford found solace and excitement in the great outdoors. He would often have fish fries at gatherings to share his bounties, to which everyone enjoyed. But above all he loved the time he spent with his grandkids.

His faith was the bedrock upon which he built his life. He was an active and involved member of the Full Gospel Assembly of God Church. His love for people was unconditional, and he treated everyone he met with equal kindness and respect.

Milford was a man of few, but impactful words, whose wisdom was sought after, and advice was cherished. He was a man of integrity, and those who knew him would describe him as a loving, faith-filled, and wise man. He was never afraid to talk to you about the Lord. His gentle demeanor and meaningful conversations left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

Milford is survived by his children:  Debbi Hall and husband, Troy, of Havana, IL,  and Kevin Levart and wife, Sallie of St. Clair, MO;  five grandchildren:  Christina, Duane, Randal, Kevin Wayne II, and Joseph; 12 great-grandchildren:  Melissa, Sarah, Michael, McKenzie, Neelah, Logan, Eli, Paisley, Draiden, Faith, Kaidee, Langston, Wyatt & Byron; 6 great great-grandchildren:  Aden, Madison, Sirena, Dameon, Hunter, and Maxwell; three brothers:  George “J.R.” Levart and wife, Linda of Bryant, AR, Russell Levart and wife, Shirlene of Benton, AR and James Levart of Poplar Bluff, MO; a sister, Shirley Eaton and husband, Bill of Piedmont, MO; a sister-in-law, Erma Westmoreland of South Carolina; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ellie; his parents, George & Lucy Levart including his birthmother, Mary Levart; and siblings: John W. Levart, Madeline M. (Levart) Matthews, Wanda A. (Levart) Miller, Bettie M. Levart, Ira F. Levart, and Elsie J. (Levart) Honey.

Services will be 10 AM, Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at the Full Gospel Assembly of God Church in Sullivan with Pastor Ryan Martin officiating.  Interment with full military honors will follow at I.O.O.F Cemetery, Sullivan.

Visitation will be 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at Full Gospel Assembly of God Church in Sullivan.

Memorial contributions may be made in Milford’s memory the Building Project Fund of Full Gospel Assembly of God Church in Sullivan.

Friends may send condolences online for Milford’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.