James Allen Cravens

James (Jim) Allen Cravens, 82, of Rogersville, Missouri, went to Heaven on Dec. 27, 2025. He was born on Oct. 2, 1943, to Wilbur and Thelma Cravens in Mansfield, Missouri. Jim graduated from Mansfield High School in 1961 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Southwest Missouri State University (SMSU) in 1965. He earned a Master of Science in Guidance and Counseling from SMSU in 1975.

After college graduation, Jim taught in Seymour schools while working in excavation during the summer. He loved to be outside and work with his hands, eventually trading his desk for a backhoe. Self-employed for more than 40 years before fully retiring in 2024, Jim founded and operated Cravens Excavating in Rogersville.

Jim married his "darlin' " Susie Teague Cunningham, on July 11, 1992.

He loved living in the country and restoring classic cars and trucks. His biggest love, though, was music -- especially gospel music. Jim began singing at an early age with his father, sister and uncles at churches, funerals and special events. He loved the Lord and took every opportunity to use his gift of music to bless others. Part of a large extended family, Jim looked forward to singing with his cousins every year at family reunions.

He was a longtime member of the South Haven Baptist Church choir, as well as the church's men's quartet (which sometimes consisted of five members!). His deep bass voice resonated through every song. His quartet recorded several CDs over the years.

Jim was also an accomplished guitarist and had a music room in his house dedicated to the practice and performance of his many instruments. He loved to "jam" with fellow musicians, and he and Susie hosted many music parties for friends and family. (His impersonation of Willie and Elvis was always a highlight!)

Most important to Jim were his many family and friends. He never knew a stranger and was always ready to talk and share stories. Even through recent years of debilitating illness, his persevering spirit was an inspiration to others.

Jim is survived by his wife, Susie; son Gary Cunningham (Ashley) and granddaughter Aubree (of Lexington, SC); sister Jane Cogdill (Springfield, MO); and sisters-in-law Barbara Record (Willard, MO), Darlene Deas (Shawnee, KS), Elaine Tolen (Carmel, IN) and their families. A special part of Jim's family is longtime friend, Justin Hughes (Lauren) and their sons, Cooper and Kale (Hartville, MO). Many cousins, uncles and aunts also survive.

He was preceded in death by sons Greg, Craig and Brent Cravens.

Visitation will be 6:00-7:30 pm on Friday, January 2, 2026, at South Haven Baptist Church in Springfield. The Funeral Service will be at 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at South Haven Baptist Church, followed by internment at Rivermonte Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to South Haven Baptist Church, 2353 S. Campbell Ave, Springfield, MO 65807.