Jackie Dean “Jack” Nance, 82, of Willhoit, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at his home. He was born October 1, 1940, in Smackout, Missouri to H.O. “Beech” and Lena (Johnson) Nance. A short time later, the family moved to Willhoit to run the Nance Store. Other than the couple of years he spent working in Kansas City, Jack spent his life in the “holler” at Willhoit in the home he was raised in up until his death. Jack was a member of the Barren Fork Church of Christ.
Jack graduated from Gainesville High School in 1958. Farming was all he ever wanted to do from the time he was young. He spent his time helping his dad farm, and also ran a bulldozer part-time. He cut and baled hay for several friends and family in the summers, usually with his nephew. For many years, he was employed as a farm hand for Brantingham Cattle Company. Later on, he partnered with his nephew-in-law, and they farmed together up until his health no longer allowed it. Even when he couldn’t physically help on the farm, he always had plenty of advice and instructions on how things should be done.
He loved to turkey hunt and squirrel hunt. He enjoyed being around family and friends and was always making jokes and pulling pranks. He always had a stock dog or two at his side that went everywhere with him. He was a special “Pop” to his 3 great nieces Jaiden, Jaycie, and Jailyn.
Jack is survived by one sister, Barbara Loftis of Noble, several nieces and nephews, and his dog Badger. He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers (Wayne, Lyman, Brandt), and 3 sisters (Charlene, Emogene, Annave).
Memorial contributions may be made to the Jackson Cemetery.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, April 3, 2023 in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home chapel, Gainesville, MO with Milan Chisam and Dale Cowart officiating. Visitation will be Monday morning from 10 a.m. to service time. Burial will be in the Jackson Cemetery near Romance, MO. Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.
