Junior Shockley, a beloved father, minister, and friend, passed away on Friday, August 30, 2024 at St Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City, Missouri at the age of 72.
Junior was a man whose life touched many hearts, and though his passing brings sorrow, we celebrate a life lived with unwavering faith, devotion, and love.
Born on June 16, 1952, in Clinton, Missouri, Junior was the son of Hattie Mae Shockley. A proud graduate of Clinton High School’s Class of 1970, he went on to serve seven years in the National Guard. Junior’s interests evolved over the years—from tinkering with cars, engaging in drag racing, fishing, playing baseball, and participating in slow-pitch softball.
Junior devoted over 30 years to the trucking industry and served as a school bus driver for the Clinton School District, reflecting his commitment to community service. However, it was his work in faith that truly defined him. Junior was a man on fire for Jesus, serving as a Deacon, Minister, and later Co-Pastor at Save Our World Ministries. He also dedicated his time as a Chaplain at Golden Valley Memorial Hospital.
Junior was renowned for generously sharing his time, talents, and financial resources to assist those in need. On April 2, 1983, Junior married Jackie Witherspoon in Clinton, Missouri. Together, they nurtured their own children and lovingly cared for over a hundred foster children.
Junior is preceded in death by his mother, Hattie Mae Shockley and brother Timothy Shockley.
Survivors include his wife of the home, Jackie Shockley and 8 children; Susan (John) Wyatt, Tracy (Amy) Witherspoon, Angela (Fred) Dozier, Liana (Willy) Walker, Lisa Shockley, Jeff (Jenna) Shockley, Allison Shockley, and Alexis (Hayden) McClure, 27 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, 3 siblings; Bruce Shockley, Kerwin Shockley, and Cindy Shockley, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held September 7, 2024 at the Vansant-Mills Chapel, Clinton with Rev. Chris Aery officiating. Special music included “Never Not Remember You and Dancing In the Sky.” The casket bearers were Shannon Shockley, Hunter Corley, Jerry Witherspoon, Braiden Shockley, Johnathon Wickam and Ron Harp. Chris Ramirez and Fred Dozier were honorary bearers. Interment followed in Antioch Cemetery, Clinton, MO.
As we grieve his passing, we take comfort in celebrating the remarkable life he lived and the profound impact he made on so many. Junior’s spirit and devotion will forever be a beacon of inspiration to us all.
Services were under the direction of Vansant-Mills Funeral Home of Clinton, MO.
