Drury a visionary and compassionate leader

Robert "Bob" Drury was a visionary and business leader. His influence, though strong in Southeast Missouri, extended well beyond throughout the United States. On Thursday, Drury died at the age of 81.

Those who have lived in this area for the past two decades remember west Cape Girardeau before its development. There was no mall. There were no businesses lining Siemers Drive and beyond. Thanks in part to the Drury family, this area of Cape Girardeau has expanded and become an important factor in our local economy.

Drury was the CEO of Drury Southwest, a company with interests in hotels, a bowling alley, real estate and outdoor advertising. Drury Hotels, with 130 locations in 25 states, has regularly been recognized with awards.

While the economic impact of the Drury family's business interests are important, character is something that Rick Drury, Bob Drury's son, commented on to the Southeast Missourian. He said his father was committed to the company's employees and that he will be missed.

"All I can say is we have lost a true, great leader who will be sorely missed, and his shoes will be hard to fill, if not impossible," said Rick Drury in a recent Southeast Missourian story.

Drury died Nov. 28, Thanksgiving Day. We are thankful for his life, his leadership and his contributions in many areas. We offer our prayers for his family.