James William (Carter) Underwood, 88, of Plato, Mo., was born Sept. 23, 1930, in Dott, West Virginia. He passed away Jan. 15, 2019, at his home.
He was preceded in death by his biological parents, Charlie and Mary (Underwood) Carter; his uncle and aunt, John and Minnie Underwood who raised him; his wife, Margaret Underwood; twin infant boys; an infant granddaughter; two brothers, Dewey Carter and CJ Carter; two sisters, Charlene Vaughn and Margaret Farmer; and a son-in-law, Jim Zulkosky.
James married Margaret Bailey on Dec. 22, 1949; they enjoyed 64 years of marriage.
James entered the United States Army on Nov. 2, 1957, in Fort Knox, Ky., serving in Germany and Vietnam. He received numerous commendations and medals such as sharpshooter, marksman and a Bronze Star Medal. He was an instructor for heavy equipment and retired Dec. 31, 1976, as a SFC.
He is survived by his children, David (Debbie) Underwood of Evening Shade, Mo., Danny Underwood of Success, Mo., Elaine Zulkosky of Crocker, Mo., and Becky (Kenny) Bruce of Kansas City, Mo.; nine grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; three sisters, Beulah (Larry) Croy, Patsy (Jim) Croy and Shirley (Larry) Snyder, all of West Virginia; Shane Underwood, who was also raised by John Underwood; and numerous other family and friends.
James visited area churches throughout his life. He enjoyed watching westerns and listening to music. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
The children of Jim “Grandpa” would like to express appreciation for loving care given to him and allowing him to remain in his home after grannies passing to his granddaughter, Barbara Bruce.
Services were 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2019, at Palace Church with Wesley Wallace officiating. Burial with full military honors was in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., under the direction of Evans Funeral Home. Pallbearers were grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
PAID
