Graduated from Sparta High School in 1963 Donnie R. Gideon, 61, Sparta, passed away suddenly, Sunday, July 2, 2006, in his home. He was born Sept. 6, 1944, in Sparta the son of Eldo and Ora (McTeer) Gideon. On Nov. 6, 1981, Donnie was united in marriage to Connie Morrison.
Donnie graduated from Sparta High School in 1963 and was employed with Fasco Industries for 28 years. He enjoyed hobbies of collecting old pennies, watching baseball games, fishing and was an avid Cardinals baseball fan. His greatest passion was being a devoted husband, loving father to his girls, and spending time with the family dog “Bo.” Donnie also proudly served his country with the United States Army as a member of the military police.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and three brothers.
Donnie was sincerely proud of his surviving family, his beloved wife Connie; three daughters, Janice Richison and husband Shawn, of Ozark, Donna Riddlesperger and husband, Doug, of Sparta, and Jessica Gideon of Sparta; three sisters, Dorothy Jackson, Faye Rantz and Sue Schreiner; six grandchildren Randall and Cody Gann, Daniel Richison, Haley and Brooke Riddlesperger and Jonna Hyatt; his parents-in-law, J.D. and Betty Morrison of Ava; other caring relatives and many friends.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 6, in Barnes Family Funeral Home, Ozark, with the Rev. Bobby Stout officiating. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Sparta.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, July 5, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the funeral home.
