James Wade Withrow

James “J.W.” Wade Withrow, 69, of Odessa, Missouri passed away on Sunday, May 29, 2022, at home surrounded by family.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 4, 2022, at the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2^nd St., Odessa, MO, 64076, 816-633-5524.  A Celebration of Life will begin at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 4, 2022, at the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to PAL (Progressive Alternative Living).  Memories of James and condolences for his family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our Facebook Page. 

James was born on December 20, 1952, in Holden, Missouri to Cecil Guy and Letha Belle (Callahan) Withrow.  He graduated in 1970 as Valedictorian from Odessa High School.  In 1974, James received his degree in Engineering Graphics from Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, MO.  On May 25, 1974, he was united in marriage to Sheryl Ann Jordan in Warrensburg, MO.  James retired in 2022 from WL Cassell/IMEG as an Electrical Engineer.  James was recognized for his talent, in the early 90’s he won a national award for work he completed at Disney World AMC Theaters.  In addition to the numerous awards he won for his work, he was also a member of IES-Illuminating Engineering Society.  In addition to spending time with family and friends, James enjoyed antiques, finding a good bargain, refinishing furniture, but most of all spending time with grandchildren. 

James is survived by his wife of 48 years, Sheryl Ann Withrow, of Odessa, MO; two sons, Eric Withrow and wife Holly of Blue Springs, MO, and Darrin Withrow of Odessa, MO; seven grandchildren, Tristan Lovell and fiancé Cassidy Turner, Jordan Withrow, Kaylee Bice, Ryan Withrow, Ryan Bice, Annabelle Withrow, Jaxson Withrow; one great grandson, Carter Wilson; three sisters, Nina Ruth Withrow of Higginsville, MO, Joyce White of Blue Springs, MO, and Jeanne Short and husband Christopher of Odessa, MO; two brothers, Michael Wayne Withrow and wife Lisa  and Raymond Allan Withrow and wife Shelly, both of Odessa; father and mother in law, Donnie and Patsy Jordan of Odessa, MO; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by a sister in infancy, Rita Ruby Withrow.