Earl Middleton, 81
Earl Middleton, 81, of Isabella, MO, went home to be with Jesus on March 16, 2022, at the age of 81 years and 10 months. Dad is survived by his wife of 61 years Maxine Middleton and daughter Tammy Middleton. Dad was the oldest of six siblings born to Ransom and Thelma (Ford) Middleton of Savannah, Tennessee, born May 10th 1940. He is survived by siblings Jimmy Middleton (Michigan), Dave Middleton (Indiana), Barbara Franks, Brenda Strickland and James Allen Middleton of Tennessee. Dad had many Nieces, Nephews and Cousins.
Dad enjoyed 26 years working in the propane gas business starting at Empire Gas and continuing with Ozark County Gas Company where he became Branch Manager in the Mountain Home, AR, area meeting many wonderful people and making lifelong friendships along the way. He knew almost everyone it seemed from his early years as Vice President of the Lutie School Board, through his years at Ozark County LP Gas Company and then to helping out good friend Lloyd Camp at the Camp’s Plants Greenhouse in Mountain Home, Arkansas. He was always working or helping others or doing his own gardening which he was wonderful at. He was always cooking or taking Mom and I on trips to Tennessee many years ago and many, many other places over the years. In his spare time and with loads of love, he even designed special wheelchairs for seating and comfort for Mom which were bragged upon by a few Doctors and Nurses who told him how amazing that was. So many knew my Dad, but Dad always said when it was his time, he just wanted a quick simple graveside service which he had and was so beautiful. He loved so many people and so many people loved him. I am so thankful for all the wonderful friends and family. Most of all Dad loved our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and made Jesus his Savior. I will be with my Dad in Heaven one day. Anyone wishing to make a donation in memory of Dad can do so to Sonlife Broadcasting Network in Baton Rouge, LA or go to jsm.org. Clinkingbeard Funeral Home in Gainesville, MO, also has information to Sonlife Broadcasting Network.
A few words from others: The world is a little less bright today. One rarely in this life meets someone that could be described by One and All, who had the good fortune of making their acquaintance as “Genuine”, both in character and in action! However, Earl Middleton was indeed just such a man! His relentless passion and love for country, community and his precious wife and daughter, along with a host of friends, was evident in every fiber of his personality and character. One could not help but notice how his radiant smile would light up even the darkest of rooms when he was present in it. Yes indeed we were all blessed by Earl’s signature smile and it still remains a part of his legacy even today and is evident in the face of his precious daughter Tammy Middleton as well. Many men may come and go in this ole world, but only a few could be remotely compared to my friend Earl and his true affection and concern for others. Whether you were in need of propane in the middle of a cold winter’s night, in need of help with other personal or business needs, or simply needed to be cared for and tucked in for the night, Earl was always there to deliver! May we each live our lives daily and honor his legacy by being the Friend, Father, and role model that he was to us all. You may be gone my friend, Earl, but you will never be forgotten! In loving memory your friend, David Camp.
Earl was a very strong man in many different ways.He was the “Go to” man on many issues others had and he helped with a caring, considerate smile. He was respected by everyone I came in contact with that knew him. From plants at Camp’s nursery to the propane business, he was there to help at many a late hour. Whoever did not know, missed out on a great man! He was my hunting buddy, my friend, and he was a Dad I never had. Love Mike.
Earl, we will always Love, Miss and Remember you. We will keep you in our hearts and one day we will see you again in Heaven! I will miss you Earl, my hunting buddy. Mike.
Services conducted by Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.
Paid obituary, printed as submitted