James DeLay

BELL CITY, Mo. -- James Wright DeLay, 90, of Bell City departed this life for his heavenly home Monday, Feb. 4, 2013.

Jim was born July 14, 1922, in Tilman, Mo., son of Zelma W. and David C. DeLay. He is survived by one son, Darrell J. DeLay of Advance, Mo.; and three daughters, Avis Holloway and husband Wally of Springfield, Mo., Peggy Beck of Sikeston, Mo., and Diane Frank and husband Chaunce of Nixa, Mo. Also surviving are nine grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

He came from a family of nine and was preceded in death by his parents and six siblings, Gertie, Lena, Cowena, Evelyn, Jack and Hubert. He also leaves behind many cherished loved ones, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Jim owned and operated DeLay Brothers Implement Company in Bell City with his brother, Hubert DeLay. They were brothers, partners and best friends.

Jim DeLay's love for others was like few men we know. He loved his family and cared for his wife until her last day. He loved his community, serving Bell City until his body could bear it no longer. All of this love found its source in the love of Jesus that filled his heart to overflowing. Every person with the privilege of knowing him has been changed forever by that love. May this dear friend, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great grandfather and husband rest forever at peace in the arms of his loving Savior who surely proclaimed upon his arrival in heaven, "Well done, good and faithful servant!" We long for the day when we see you and Marge again.

Visitation for friends is from 5 to 8 p.m. today at Morgan Funeral Home in Advance.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be afterward at Pleasant Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Cowboy Church, 220 Orchid Lane, Oak Ridge, MO and Bell City United Methodist Church.