Mr. Hershel Sanders Bledsoe Jr.

Hershel (Jim) Sanders Bledsoe Jr. entered his heavenly home December 27th, 2022, after a cancer diagnosis three weeks earlier.
Hershel was born August 13th, 1936, in Springfield, Missouri to Hershel Sr. and Thursa Bledsoe. He is preceded in death by his parents and three older siblings: Leon, Fern, and Martha. He is survived by the love of his life, Janice, his wife of 63 years; their only child, Mary Elizabeth (Beth), of Springfield, Missouri; granddaughter Amanda Crandall and her husband Nick of Willard, Missouri; grandson Cody Wallace and his wife Lauren of Ladue, Missouri; and three great-granddaughters, Baylee, Adeline, and Presley. His beloved family also included many nieces, nephews, and cousins, whom he cared for deeply.
Hershel was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, serving on the U.S.S. Franklin D. Roosevelt as an Aviation Electronics Technician. After his time in the Navy, Hershel graduated from Missouri State University, then known as Southwest Missouri State College, with a Bachelor's degree in Education. He would go on to earn a Master's degree from the University of Missouri, and a Specialist's degree from Missouri State University, both in School Administration.
Hershel cherished his many years in public education. His career began in Dixon, Missouri, where he taught business education for three years, before becoming Principal at Dixon High School. In 1966, he moved his family to Willard, Missouri after accepting the Principal position at Willard High School, where he spent 22 fulfilling and impactful years. In 1987, Hershel became Superintendent of the Everton School District; a position he held close to his heart for the rest of his life. After 37 years of helping communities and touching the lives of students, Hershel retired in 1997. He loved sharing memories of staff, teachers, and students; and was proud to be, "Mr. Bledsoe."
After retirement, Hershel and Janice joined the staff of the Springfield Cardinals during their inaugural season. He loved making new friends and seeing familiar faces while scanning tickets at gates one and three. Hershel enjoyed this job for many years, working through the 2022 season. Hershel and Janice also enjoyed working at Missouri State University, helping with events such as football games, soccer games, basketball games, concerts, and graduations.
Throughout his life, Hershel was involved in many organizations and associations. His affiliations included: Masonic Lodge Willard No. 620 AF & AM (Willard, MO); Scottish Rite of Freemasonry 32° Valley of Joplin, Orient of Missouri; York Rite Chapter No. 15 (Springfield, MO); Zabud Council No. 25 (Springfield, MO); St. John's Commandery No. 20; Knight York Cross of Honor Priary No. 17; Order of the Eastern Star Crescent Chapter No. 21 (Springfield, MO); Order of the Eastern Star Queen City Chapter No. 26 (Springfield, MO); Missouri Show Me State Grand Representatives Club; Missouri Retired Teachers Association and Public School Personnel; National Association of Parliamentarians; Missouri State High School Athletic Association (secretary for 21 years); Central Ozark Conference (secretary/treasurer); and Phi Delta Kappa.
Hershel was a faithful believer and accepted Christ at a young age. He served as both a deacon and Sunday School Teacher in his church for several decades. His love for the Lord was evident by his service to others and the example he set. Hershel will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. The family would like to extend their gratitude to all who supported them during this very difficult time. A special thanks to: Hamlin Baptist Church, Integrity Hospice Care of Springfield, Quail Creek Skilled Nursing Facility, and Greenlawn Funeral Home.
A visitation will be held at Greenlawn East Funeral Home (3540 E. Seminole, Springfield, MO) on January 6th from 5:00-7:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at Hamlin Baptist Church (1942 W. Farm Rd. 102, Springfield, MO) on January 7th at 2:00 pm. A graveside service will immediately follow the Celebration of Life at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hershel's favorite charity, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.