Russell Crader

Russell Claude Crader, 88, went to be with his Heavenly Father Monday, May 1, 2006. He left this earth peacefully, surrounded by his family, at Southeast Missouri Hospital.

He was born Oct. 1, 1917, in Burfordville, son of Alva and Florence Crader. He and Delthia Viola Eakins were married Sept. 5, 1942, at Whitewater.

Mr. Crader attended schools in Burfordville. He was inducted into the U.S. Army in June, 1941. He served in World War II in New Guinea and Luzon, being discharged in November 1945. While in service he earned ATO, PTO (two Bronze Battle Stars), American Defense, Philippine Liberation Ribbon (one Bronze Battle Star), Victory Ribbon, four Overseas Bars and a Good Conduct Medal.

Mr. Crader was a member of Bethlehem General Baptist Church since 1947. He served in various capacities, including Sunday school superintendent and teacher. He served on the board as a trustee until his death. He was instrumental in overseeing and assisting in many building projects at the church.

He was employed in construction and also enjoyed farming.

Loving survivors include his beloved wife of 63 years, Delthia; a son, R. David Crader and wife Gail of Perryville, Mo.; a daughter, Brenda Sparks and husband Wilburn of Jackson; five grandchildren, Kevin Sparks (Shelly) of Marble Hill, Mo., Dr. Garrett Sparks (Amy) and Amber Weaver (Jason) of Jackson, Russell D. Crader II of Cambridge, Mass., and Dawn Dauer (Larry), of Perryville; four great-grandchildren, BreeAnna, Bryce, Braydon, and Noah; two brothers, Lynn Crader of Nashville, Tenn., Lender "Frog" Crader of Whitewater; two sisters, Legia Eakins of Cape Girardeau, and Redia Sebastian of Jackson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother, a brother and two sisters.

Friends may call today from 4 to 8 p.m. at McCombs Funeral Home in Jackson.

The funeral will be Thursday at 1:30 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Revs. Jimmie Fulbright, Willis Smith, and Joe Allen officiating. Interment will follow in Russell Heights Cemetery in Jackson.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Bethlehem General Baptist Church or the American Cancer Society.