At the age of twenty-one, “Bump” as he was known to family and friends, made a profession of faith in Christ. He was a member of Trinity Full Gospel Church. He served as a deacon and lived his life as a testimony of a strong and joyful Christian servant. His church family was very important to him and he treasured each of the special friendships he had made through the years.
On September 25, 1954, he was united in marriage with Laureda Ann Poynter. After their marriage, he and Ann moved to the Kansas City area, where they remained until 1969. They then returned to Eldridge, where they made their home and remained on the same farm until his passing. They shared fifty-five magical years together.
“Bump” was a wonderful musician and enjoyed sharing his gift of song. Through the years, he also taught many others how to play guitar. He played blue grass and gospel music and was involved with many music groups. He participated in many benefit auctions for the needy and played for residents at the nursing home.
He leaves to mourn his passing, his wife Ann of the home; a special daughter, Sherrie Smith and her husband Ken, of Eldridge, MO; five sisters, Lavon Thompson and her husband Roy, and June Westpfahl, all of Eldridge, Kathron Simpson and her husband Wayne of Springfield, MO, Laverne Helmer and her husband Frank of Kansas City, MO and Mary Lou Severson and her husband Jerry of McDonough, GA; four grandchildren, Linda Joy Waters, Kyle and Emily Smith and Kim Carter and her husband Charlie; one “soon-to be” great-grandson; other relatives; church family and many friends.
“Bump” was preceded in death by his parents, his son Dale, one grandson, Jake Smith, one sister, Linda Joy Waters, two brothers, Herschel Waters and infant brother, Howard Waters.
“Bump” was a “lover of life” and a practical joker. He could light up the room with his contagious smile and appreciation for friendship. His family and church home were most important in his life. Those who had the pleasure of knowing him were truly blessed. He will be greatly missed.
IN MEMORY OF BYRON DEE “BUMP” WATERS
BORN December 17, 1934
PASSED AWAY October 28, 2009
SERVICE 11:00 A.M., Monday, November 2, 2009 Shadel’s Colonial Chapel
MINISTER Shawnie Ripley
MUSIC Dorothaia Ripley, Soloist Smith Family Mandy Burns, Accompanist
ESCORTS Clinton Ray Waters Eddie Thompson Mark Landis Warren Olinger Sam Westpfahl Wesley Marston
HONORARY ESCORTS Jerry Wallender Glen Ripley Kevin Waterman Bruce Pendergraft Kenny Joe Moore Brian Waterman
RESTING PLACE Hufft Cemetery
Shadel’s Colonial Chapel Rusty and Marcia Shadel
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