Herbert Afton Box

Herbert "Afton" Box, age 92, of Springfield, Missouri, was called to his Heavenly home on January 18, 2026. Afton passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family.

Afton was born on May 11, 1933, in Aldridge, Missouri, to Herbert L. and Lena E. (Smith) Box. He was raised alongside his three siblings-Bill, Angie, and Emogene-on their family property and attended school in Eudora, Missouri. Afton was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War on June 23, 1953, at the age of 19. He completed basic training at Camp Polk, Louisiana, and served as a member of the 37th Division, performing duties as a correctional officer and patrolling as part of his assignment. Following basic training, Afton attended police school and served as a military policeman. He later traveled to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where he directed traffic for the first atomic cannon, known as Atomic Annie. His final military transfer was to Fort Riley, Kansas, with the 10th Division, where he continued to serve as a military patrol officer until his active duty ended on April 26, 1955. Afton then served in the Army Reserve for six years, receiving an honorable discharge on June 30, 1961.

Afton married his first love, Mary "Pauline" Crain in 1953. To this union, two children were born, a son, James (Jimmy) Allen and daughter, Mary Lynn. Afton shared stories of the love they shared and how that love provided the strength and deep bond to get through the tragic loss of their nine-year-old son, Jimmy. After a life of 16 years with his first love, Pauline was called home to Heaven. Afton met and fell in love with Donna D. Berry. They united in marriage on May 9, 1970 and together they welcomed a daughter, Candi J Box.

Afton was known for his commitment to public service. He served Greene County as both a Lieutenant Communication Officer and a correctional officer at Greene County Jail. Additionally, he was a respected employee at City Utilities, where he held multiple roles including fabricator, welder, and mechanic. He consistently dedicated significant time to his responsibilities and demonstrated authentic empathy in all professional interactions.

His enthusiasm for fishing and hunting extended to his two sons-in-law, whom he referred to as his boys. Afton enjoyed recounting numerous stories about teaching them the activities he valued most. He was well known for his profound love for his family, especially his daughters, to whom he was deeply committed. When speaking of his daughters, Afton often expressed gratitude for Rick and David, noting that he had gained two outstanding sons. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, when sharing these experiences his eyes lit up, showing the joy that they brought to his life. He consistently expressed how proud he was of his family. Afton was known for his kindness and positive influence on those around him. He was deeply valued by his family, neighbors, and close friends. His presence is already missed, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

Afton is survived by his sister, Angie Page of Colorado; his daughter, Candi Ward, and her husband David; a son-in-law, Rick Hedgpeth, all of Springfield; one grandson, Jared Ward; four granddaughters, Danielle Ward, Alicia Ragsdale and her husband Blair, Kim Minkler and her husband Tim, and Lacey Coop. He also leaves behind six great-grandchildren: Issac, Finley, Abby and Hannah Minkler, Jessi Hardney and her husband Teddy, Katie Ragsdale, and many other relatives, neighbors, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Lena Box; his wives, Pauline and Donna; his son Jimmy; his daughter Mary Lynn; his brother Bill; and his sister Emogene.

Visitation will be at Greenlawn North Funeral home in Springfield, Mo on Tuesday January 27, 2026, at 10:00 am with funeral services following at 11:00am.