Gary Edmond Hudspeth

Gary E. Hudspeth, 78, of Columbia, MO passed away Wednesday, May 20th in Columbia, MO with his family at his side. Friends and family may gather Saturday, June 6th from 10-11am at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia. The Celebration of his life will begin at 11am.

Gary was born on December 14, 1947, in Point Pleasant, MO to Elmer Lee and Genevieve Rose Hudspeth. In 1965, he graduated from Kennett High School in Kennett, MO where he lettered in basketball, baseball and football. He played offense and defense and received outstanding trophies in both. He earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from SEMO. Gary worked his entire career in insurance. He studied vigilantly and obtained certification as a CPCU, Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter and AIC. On December 29, 1971, he married Paula Shaw in Sikeston, MO. They moved to Columbia in 1978 where Gary went to work for Silvey Insurance Companies and later for MOPERM. When he wasn’t working, Gary enjoyed golfing with his friends at AL Gustin Golf Course; he was known as “Hammer” by his golf buddies. Over his golf career Gary made 6 holes-in-one. He enjoyed staying in shape through weight lifting and walking his dog. He loved to travel with his loving wife, Paula. They visited destinations all over the world and enjoyed sixteen cruises together. He loved to spend time with all his family and was an avid fan of MIZZOU sports. Gary thanked God for the goodness of his life and the blessing of his children and amazing grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Paula Hudspeth; daughters, Shawn (Michael) Stewart of Greenbrier, TN, Kathy (Ryan) Nobles of Springfield, MO, and Gina (Corey) Crane of Kansas City, MO; nine grandchildren, Jesse & Jenna Stewart, Lauren, Mason, & Kinleigh Rose, and Lucas, Devin, Mallory, & Barrett Crane; half-siblings, Pamela Kline, Darrell Hudspeth, Terry Hudspeth, and Penny Weisend; several nieces and nephews and his beloved Labrador, Lucy. He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Donald Hall; and a brother, Gene Hudspeth.

Memorial donations can be made to Columbia Second Chance 24687 MO-179, Boonville, MO 65233 or to the Columbia Golf Foundation PO Box 1384 Columbia, MO 65205.

Condolences and fond memories can be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com