Jeffery Dale Hutson, son of Molly (Burdick) Hutson and the late Billy Hutson, was born November 20, 1962, in Mansfield, Missouri, and departed this life on January 7, 2026, at Lake Regional Hospital in Osage Beach, Missouri, at the age of 63 years, 1 month, and 18 days.
Jeff grew up in Hartville, Missouri, and was a proud graduate of Hartville High School. After high school, he moved away from Hartville but later returned. He dedicated many years to his craft as a heating and air technician before transitioning to his recent role as a semi-driver for GFL. Above all, Jeff was a devoted man of God. He spent several years as a traveling pastor, possessing an intimate knowledge of the Bible and a heart for sharing the gospel with others. Jeff never knew a stranger and could carry on a conversation with a fence post.
Jeff found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was a skilled woodworker who enjoyed building hunting huts. He cherished time spent traveling with his family, exploring thrift stores and trying new restaurants. An avid outdoorsman, he loved fishing and hunting. He rarely missed a chance to listen to talk radio or discuss his support for President Trump. Jeff’s deep love for his family and his unwavering faith remain his greatest legacies.
In 1979, Jeff met the love of his life, Terri Calton; their paths separated for a short time as they led other lives, but they were reunited with one another in 2012. While they never officially walked down the aisle, their deep devotion to one another was unmistakable. Jeff’s love was most evident in the way he cared for Terri; as she navigated health challenges, he remained a steadfast presence by her side, selflessly tending to her every need.
Jeff was preceded in death by his father, Billy Hutson, and one brother, Terry “Moose” Hutson.
Jeff is survived by his mother, Molly Hutson, his loving girlfriend, Terri Calton, five children, Stephanie Lindsey and husband, Ron, Erick Hutson and wife, Morgan, Kristina Copeland and husband, Thomas, Jessica Hicks and husband, Justin and Noah Calton and wife, Myka, eight grandchildren, Destiny, Joshua, Sadie, Jaysten, Jackie, Dakota, Anthony and Riley, one great-grandchild, Jace, one sister, Brenda Atwood and husband, Larry, two nieces, Stephanie and Melissa, one nephew, David, and a host of other relatives and friends.
Jeff was a loving son, father, boyfriend, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. We will miss his contagious laughter, big hugs and bright smile. His legacy will live on forever in our hearts.
Memorial contributions can be made to the family in care of Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home. Memorial contributions can be dropped off in person at Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home in Hartville or mailed to: P.O. Box 236, Hartville, MO 65667.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
280 North Main St, Hartville, MO 65667

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more