ONIS LEARUE

SIKESTON -- Onis H. Learue, 78, of Sikeston died Thursday, Feb. 12, 1998, at his home.

He was born Feb. 2, 1920, in Steele, son of Jonn Asa and Annie Mack Gardner Learue. He and Virginia D. Harper were married June 26, 1945, at Benton.

Learue was co-owner and operator of Learue-McKinnie Big Star Store at Miner for 20 years. He was a member and deacon of Bement Baptist Church, and member of Missouri American Legion.

He was a technical sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II, serving in the 32nd Red Arrow Infantry Division. The division won a Presidential Citation and the right to wear the distinguished Unit Badge, the only award worn over the right uniform pocket.

Learue received the Purple Heart, the Philippines Liberation Medal, and four Bronze Stars.

Survivors include his wife; two sons, Larry Learue of Poplar Bluff, Gerald Learue of Sikeston; two sisters, Madeline Weeks of Winfield, Ala., Ann Myers of Sikeston; three grandchildren; and a great-grandson.

He was preceded in death by three brothers.

Friends may call at Nunnelee Funeral Chapel from 5-8 p.m. today.

Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at the chapel, with the Rev. Delbert Bishop officiating. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery at Charleston, with military rites by VFW Post 3838 of Cape Girardeau.