William Junior DeLong, age 82 of Sparta, Missouri passed away Saturday, April 10, 2021 in Cox South Hospital, Springfield, Missouri. He was born July 26, 1938, in Omaha, Arkansas, the son of Joseph and Elsie (Sears) DeLong. On September 13, 1991, he was united in marriage to Deanna Braden Baney.
Junior, as he was fondly known by his family and friends, was a longtime Christian County resident. He was very well-known in the county and a dedicated employee for the City of Ozark for over 20 years. Junior also enjoyed working at Hawkins Mill. During his retirement, he liked spending time outdoors, hunting and playing the harmonica. He was self-taught and talented on the harmonica and enjoyed playing the Omnichord. Much of his retirement time was spent working on the farm, where he raised bottle calves, chickens, cattle and baled large hay fields. Junior was a born again Christian and baptized at an early age. His outgoing personality allowed him to never know a stranger and his huge heart showed unconditional love for everyone. Junior will be sadly missed but will live on forever in the hearts of his loving family and many friends.
Junior is survived by his loving wife Deanna; three children Charles DeLong and wife Sally, Patricia Lutz and Lesa Simons; three stepchildren Brad Baney and wife Mary, Michael Baney and Buck Baney; thirteen grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, other caring relatives and many friends. In addition to his parents, Junior was also preceded in death by six siblings Emanuel, Mary, Ruby, Velva, Lucille and Leon.
Funeral services for Junior will be 10:00 A.M. Thursday, April 15, 2021 in Barnes Family Funeral Home, Ozark, Missouri with Jeff DeLong officiating. Burial will follow in Selmore Cemetery. Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Wednesday evening in the funeral home. Online condolences may be shared at wwwbarnesfamilyfunerals.com.
Effective October 21, 2020 through April 30, 2021 the City of Ozark, Missouri issued a mask ordinance. A requirement to wear face coverings when in public, for the purpose of preventing or limiting the spread of COVID-19. Barnes Funeral Home is following the ordinance and recommend social distance guidelines. The family and staff thank you in advance, for your understanding during these difficult times.
Condolence(1)-
Barbara (Nave) Cockrum & Loran says
April 13, 2021 at 6:59 pmWe are so sorry for the loss of your Dad, I have known your Dad every since I was very young. Will be praying for your family. Junior could really play the harmonica. I know you don’t know me but I remember your Dad well. He was a good man. Barbara (Nave)Cockrum and husband Loran Cockrum.