James Orville Acton

He was born on February 19, 1938, in Columbia, Missouri, to James Woodson and Josephine (Berry) Acton.

On February 15, 1960, James married Shirley (Mason/Bagley) in Columbia, Missouri, and to this union four children were born: Larry, Michael, Tammy, and Lisa. James was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose life centered around the people he loved most.

Prior to retirement, James worked for Culligan for more than 40 years. He was known for his hard work, dedication, and unmatched work ethic. Even after retiring, he continued to work part-time for Culligan, a true testament to his commitment and reliability.

James’s survivors include his children, Larry Acton (Theresa) of Columbia, Missouri, Lisa Craig of Fulton, Missouri; and Janie Creason of Washington, MO, his grandchildren, Danielle White (Joshua), Brandon Craig (Brandi), Tyler Craig (Brianna), Christina Lozano, Sandy Welch, Amy Welch, and Angela Wells; Jim Placht, Joe Placht, Carol Placht, along with numerous great-grandchildren, sisters, Julia Hatton, Diana Aldez, Leona Ray, Kathy Callen all of Columbia, half brothers and sisters, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Woodson and Josephine; his wife, Shirley; his son, Michael D. Acton; his daughter, Tammy Lynn Acton; and his brothers; Wilford Acton, Raymond Acton, Bueford Acton, Ronnie Acton, Jerry Acton; half brothers, Joe Berry, Otto Acton, Aubrey Acton, Lacie Forsee, and Vanita Perkins.

James loved his family deeply and was known for his heart and compassionate for his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and spending time with family and those great-grandbabies. He enjoyed country music and watching westerns, and he especially loved traveling to various locomotive steam engine shows. These simple pleasures brought him great joy throughout his life.

Words of comfort and support may be shared with the family at the visitation on Monday, November 24, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home. Services honoring and celebrating James’s life will follow at 1:00 p.m., with committal prayers and burial in Memorial Park Cemetery, Columbia, Missouri.

Celebration of life dinner following services at: Judy and John Holley’s Home: 4211 Mexico Gravel Road, Columbia, MO, 65202.

Rest with the Angels Father your memory will live on in our hearts forever.