James "Jim" E. Wasson, Jr.

James “Jim” E. Wasson, Jr. of Leasburg, MO, was born on Saturday, November 17, 1956, in Mannheim, Germany to James E. Wasson, Sr. and Beverly Joy Wasson, nee Donaldson.  He passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the age of 69 years, 4 months and 22 days.

Jim’s life was one of quiet strength, steady love, and unwavering devotion to the people who mattered most to him.

Growing up as an army brat, Jim learned early how to adapt and work hard. He graduated from Sullivan High School in the Class of 1975 and stepped straight into the working world, beginning his career as an auto mechanic at American Auto Parts. He later brought his expertise and dedication to the teams at CarQuest and Walmart, where he became a familiar face to anyone needing a hand under the hood.  It was more than just a job—it was the start of a lifelong passion. Jim loved cars. Whether he was racing them in his younger days or rebuilding them later in life, there was always a spark in him when it came to engines, grease, and the satisfaction of fixing something with his own two hands.

It was during those early working years that Jim met the love of his life, Melba Lou Joy. What began as a simple meeting turned into a lifelong partnership, and on January 14, 1996, they were married in Cuba, Missouri. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and quiet devotion. Jim adored Melba—he found joy in spoiling her, in making her smile, and in simply being by her side. Their bond was one of deep companionship and enduring affection.

Jim was, above all, a family man. He and Melba shared a deep love for their blended family, raising and cherishing their five children -Rebecca, Felicia, James, Melinda, and Brittany-instilling in them the same values he lived by every day. He coached his kids in softball, showed up when it mattered, and created a home where everyone felt cared for. As his family grew to include grandchildren, nothing made him happier than having everyone together—sharing meals, smoking meat, laughing, and making memories that will live on in each of them.

His career took him from American Auto in Rolla to becoming the manager of the Tire and Lube Center in Sullivan, where he worked faithfully for 23 years before retiring. He wasn’t one for attention or praise—he simply showed up, did his job well, and earned the respect of those around him through his consistency and integrity.

Jim had a strong, quiet faith. He had accepted the Lord, and lived it every day—in his kindness, his patience, and his steady presence. Though he never held the formal title of Pastor, Jim was a devoted servant who felt truly at home sharing the Word of the Lord. He poured his heart into many personal ministries, and it was a routine sight to find him on Sunday mornings at the local nursing home or truck stop, sharing a message of hope and faith with anyone who would listen. He was a man who truly walked the walk, showing his love for God in the way he treated everyone he met. That was just who he was: quiet, reserved, but deeply grounded.  Outside of work and family, Jim loved the outdoors. He found peace in camping, fishing, and hunting—simple joys that reflected his down-to-earth nature.  He could be found often wearing his cowboy hat and smile to follow.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Sr. and Beverly Wasson; 2 grandchildren; nephew, Ryan Gable; and a great nephew.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Melba Wasson of Leasburg, MO; children, Rebecca Wasson of West Plains, MO, Felicia (Allan) Studeny of Bourbon, MO, James Wasson of Salem, MO, Melinda (AJ) Rogers of Cuba, MO and Brittany (Anthony) Rott of Washington, MO; brothers, Michael (Emma) Wasson of Roby, MO and Edward (Janine) Wasson of Taylorsville, KY; parents-in-law, Richard and Bonnie Joy of Leasburg, MO; brother-in-law,  Richard “Rich” (Lesa) Joy of Valley Park, MO; sister-in-law, Loretta (Neal) Smith of St. Louis, MO; dear papa of Solana, Savannah, Malcolm, Jackson and Gabby Bridges, Zayda, Addie and Allan III. Studeny, Makiah, Ayedin and Liam Wasson, Audreanna and Carter Rogers, Charley, Eleanor and Maizie Rott; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Visitation was from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Monday, April 13, 2026 at Hutson Funeral Home, Cuba, MO.  Funeral Service was at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Hutson Funeral Home, Cuba, MO with Pastor Tim Good officiating.  Burial was at Lea Cemetery, Leasburg, MO.

Arrangements under the direction of Hutson Funeral Home, Cuba, MO.

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