Loretta Fay Caudle, 86, a resident of Columbia, passed away Monday, Oct. 28, 2024, at Boone Hospital Center.
Loretta was born June 21, 1938, in Plato, Missouri, the daughter of Lewis Lancaster and Edna (Payne) Lancaster. In 1955, she married Finis J. (Buster) Caudle, and he preceded her in death July 2, 2021.
Loretta worked side by side with her husband Buster as the secretary for the many companies they owned. Together they started Cottonwood RV Park and ran that for 22 years before selling it in 2016, when her and Buster officially retired. She enjoyed going antiquing, always looking for a great deal. She loved country music and was a super fan of George Jones and was able to see him in concert where she sat front and center to see her favorite country star perform. Of all the things she enjoyed doing in life, spending time with her family was her favorite, as she cherished every moment she was able to spend with them.
She will be sadly missed and forever remembered by two sons, Dennis Caudle and wife Linda of Columbia and Eric Caudle of Centralia; one daughter-in-law, Phyllis Caudle of Hallsville; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two sisters, Glinda Lancaster of Plato and Linda Lancaster of Houston; and one brother.
In addition to her husband of 66 years, Loretta was also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Steven Wayne Caudle; one sister, Juanita Barnett; and one brother, Robert Lancaster.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3 in the Jefferson Chapel at Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory. A visitation was held from 1 p.m. until the time of service. Following services, Loretta was laid to rest in Columbia Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia; 573-449-4153. Condolences can be shared with the family www.millardfamilychapels.com.
