Clark Gable Hunter

Clark Gable Hunter, age 87, of Versailles, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at his daughter's home in Versailles. He was born September 15, 1938, in Bragg City, Missouri, a son of the late J.O. and Maude L. (Bowling) Hunter. Clark was the youngest of nine children. His parents instilled love for the Lord and a strong work ethic in all of their children.

On November 5, 1967, in Eldon, Missouri, he was united in marriage to Mary Sue Dawson, who preceded him in death on December 20, 2022, after fifty-four years of marriage.

Clark dedicated twenty-four years of service as the County Collector, a role in which he was known for his reliability and commitment to the people of Morgan County.

He had a deep love for farming and spent much of his life raising cattle. Known for his energetic voice and friendly presence, he auctioneered countless auctions over the years and enjoyed the opportunity to visit with friends and neighbors throughout the community. He also worked as a real estate agent, helping families find places to call home. For many years, he faithfully served as a USDA meat inspector. At home, he took great pride in tending to his beautiful flower gardens, which reflected the care and patience he showed in all areas of his life.

Clark played football for the legendary football coach, Pete Adkins, while in high school at Centralia. They only lost one football game during his high school career. Coach Adkins said, "Hunter, five-foot, five inch, one hundred thirty-five-pound, senior halfback, was a real spark plug for the Panthers. Small though he was, Hunter was the hardest tackler on the team. Hunter is the type of player coaches dream about". He and Coach Adkins remained friends over the years.

Above all, his faith and his family were the foundation of his life. He dearly loved his children and grandchildren, and the time spent with them brought him his greatest joy and pride.

He is survived by his children, Keri Heinrichs and husband Todd of Chester, Nebraska, Tracy Lepley and husband Troy of Versailles, Missouri and Jeff Hunter and wife Jessica of Osage Beach, Missouri; grandchildren, Colin Lepley, Andrew Lepley, Sequoia Heinrichs, Andrew Heinrichs and Savannah Hunter; great-grandchildren, Carson Lepley, Cora Lepley, Ryleigh Lepley and Michael Clawson, Jr. and many other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Ovid, Doyne, Jerry, Bonnie, Jeanette, Billie, LaNora and Ella Jo.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 14th, at the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home in Versailles with Steve Healea officiating. Graveside services and interment will follow in the Versailles Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., Saturday, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Church of Christ.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles