Mae Ruth “Toot” O’Dell (Meade) Bockman, a loving wife, mother, granny, sister, friend, and partner-in-crime, she was the best anyone could ask for. She departed this earth for her heavenly home on April 21, 2021, at 12:54 p.m.
Mae Ruth was born to Gene and Gennie (Counts) O’Dell on May 15, 1948, at their family home on Rocky Creek. While her mother was pregnant with her, Albert “Pa” Counts began calling her “little Tooter.” The name stuck and she was called “Toot,” Aunt Toot, granny Toot, Mae, Mae Ruth, just don’t call her a Republican.
Mae Ruth served for nearly thirty years in public office. First for Bill Johnson, as Deputy County Clerk, and then the last twenty-four years as the Shannon County Clerk.
She is preceded in death by her husbands, Gerald Meade and Jim Bockman; her parents, Gene and Gennie O’Dell; sisters, Maureen Chilton, Joyce Barrett; brother, Johnny O’Dell; brother-in-law, William Chilton; nephew, Nolan Barkley; and great-nephew, Bray Barkley.
She is survived by her daughters, Traci (Terry) of Rolla, MO, Ann of Salem, MO; son, Andy (Denise) of Winona, MO; brother, Ben (Peggy) of Ashburn, VA; sister, Kay (Richard) of Farmington, MO; grandchildren, Michael, Billy (Emily), Lori, ShelbyLyn (Travis), Jake, Brandi (Brian), Lauren (Robbie), Lindsey; great-grandchildren, Kenadie, Natali, Avery, Andi, Dorian, Wyatt, Paxton, Blane, Ronan; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends that she thought of as family.
Her passion was serving others through her love for cooking. She was known worldwide for her chicken and dumplings and her cinnamon rolls.
Mae Ruth had a unique ability of making everyone feel like they were her favorite.
Though she may be gone from our sight, she’ll never be gone from our hearts, our stories, and when we think of her may it always bring a smile and only happy tears.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 24, 2021, at Yarber Mortuary, Winona, Missouri with Pastor Tony Peoples officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30-11:00 a.m. also at the chapel. Interment will be in Oak Forest Cemetery in Birch Tree, Missouri. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.
