Darrell Fender

1934 - 2025

Darrell Fender, 90, of Fair Grove, was born on July 26, 1934, in Fruitland, Missouri, the son of Bonnie Orville and Lena (Craig) Fender. He passed away peacefully on Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, at Citizens Memorial Healthcare Facility in Bolivar.
After graduating from Fair Grove High School, Darrell married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Ann Gillham, on Sept. 24, 1954, and they enjoyed 63 happy years together.
Darrell left carpentry to become a talented stone-mason after learning the trade from his brother, Gene Fender. Some of his favorite projects were restorative work on the Bennett Springs Church of God; Christ Episcopal Church, Springfield; and constructing, with a good friend, Andy Anderson, the first stone waterfall inside the main entrance of the original Bass Pro in Springfield.
He loved his family and friends, "never knew a stranger," and was helpful to many whenever he saw a need. He loved all kinds of music and was especially proud of the musical abilities of his grandson, Brent.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Barbara Ann Gillham Fender; a son, Rex Lee Fender; and three brothers, Gene and Dutch Fender, and infant twin, Harold.
Survivors include his daughter, Elaine Fender Smith, and husband, Larry Ray Smith; grandson, Brent Lee Smith; a sister, Anita Fender Maples; a sister-in-law, Vivian Gillham Stephens; a brother-in-law, Dwight Taylor; plus numerous nieces, nephews, and friends whom he dearly loved.
The family of Darrell would like to say a special thank you to the compassionate staff at Citizens Memorial Healthcare Facility. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the healthcare facility.