Dale Garner

Dale Allen Garner, 69, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away on Friday, October 10, 2025. He was born October 21, 1955, in Springfield, Missouri, to Otis Alfred and Emma Sue (Quinn) Garner. 

On November 3, 1990, Dale and Julie Nelson were united in marriage and shared over 34 years together. 

Dale was a hardworking and devoted man who took pride in serving his community. Over the years, he worked as a Reserve Greene County Deputy for 35 years, owned and operated Garner Pump Service, and drove a school bus for Willard Schools for over 39 years, where he was known for his friendly smile and dependable nature. 

He was a proud member of the Willard Masonic Lodge and a Shriner, forming lifelong friendships through both. Dale loved the outdoors and spent many hours hunting, fishing, and following NASCAR. 

Above all, he was a loving husband, father, papa, brother, and friend whose kindness, humor, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Dale is survived by wife, Julie Garner; son, Shawn Garner and wife, Kenzie; grandson, Jeremiah; sister, Flora Ann VanDegrift and husband, Randall; brother, Herschel A. Garner; other family and many friends.

Dale is preceded in death by his parents, Ottis and Emma Garner. 

Masonic services were 5 p.m., Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Ash Grove, with visitation to follow, until 7 p.m. Funeral services were 10 a.m., Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the funeral home, with burial to follow at Rose Hill Cemetery, Willard. 

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Willard Masonic Lodge and may be left with the funeral home.