John Read

John William “Johnnie Bill” Read, 69, was born Jan. 22, 1947, in El Dorado Springs to K.T. “Buck” and Vivian (Hopkins) Read.

John graduated from El Dorado Springs High School in 1965, served in the National Guard in Wyoming and worked for the Bureau of Land Management in both Wyoming and then Arizona. John obtained his pilot and surveyor license prior to leaving Arizona to return home to Missouri.

On June 9, 2016, John met his heavenly Father due to a pulmonary embolism in Springfield. He was a man of faith, believing in the power and strength of Jesus Christ’s love and the beauty and peace that would await him after his passing. John was saved in 1960 and rededicated his life through Baptism in 2012 and attended Closer Walk Christian Church.

He was an avid pilot, professional registered licensed land surveyor and established himself as a responsible, meticulous land surveyor and an accomplished businessman who mentored many in the field. He was a member of the Table Rock Masonic Lodge #680, 32nd Degree Mason with Scottish Rite Masonic Temple of Joplin, Stone County Surveyor for 10 years and active member of many professional and civic associations and boards. John was an exceptional community citizen always willing to help. John loved many and was loved by many from all walks of life.

Preceding him in passing were his parents, K.T. (Buck) and Vivian Read, and one infant brother.

John is survived by his daughters, Tabitha (Read) Julian (Ben) of Clever and Stephanie (Read) Donnohue (Trent) of Appleton City; sister, Vadena Julian, of Springfield; brother, Larry Read, (Iris) Jacksonville, FL; grandchildren – Audriana Read and Branyon Julian – Clever and Morgan and Lane Donnohue – Appleton City; many other family members, nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

The family suggests that contributions be made to the John Read Memorial Fund for the Mound Cemetery.

A memorial service was held Monday, June 13, in Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs, with Pastor William Durant officiating. Louie Gilbert gave a tribute. Music was “Amazing Grace,” “Daddy’s Hands” and “Go Rest High On That Mountain.”

Final disposition was cremation.