Obituary published on Legacy.com by Eaton Funeral Home & Cremation Center - Main Chapel on Aug. 2, 2025.
Jerris Gail Wasson, 86, of
Bourbon, Missouri, passed away on Monday, July 27, 2025, at Cuba Manor, Cuba, MO. Born on February 4, 1939, in Kennett, Missouri, to James "Virgil" and Jeweldean (Bolden) Sanders, Jerris lived a full and vibrant life that touched the hearts of all who knew her.
Jerris married the love of her life, Russell R. Wasson, on November 1, 1958, in a memorable double ceremony with her sister, Marjorie Sanders, and Joseph D. Kuhn. The ceremony was held at the Apostolic Assembly of Jesus Christ Church, where Rev. Harry Branding and Guy Roam officiated. Together, Jerris and Russell welcomed two sons, Russell D. and Kerry L., and their family became the cornerstone of her world.
As a military wife, Jerris demonstrated unwavering support and resilience, caring for her family during Russell's service. Their journey took them to various locations, including England, New Jersey, Illinois, Texas, Arizona, and ultimately to the island of Hawaii, where Russell retired in 1979. Throughout these travels, Jerris remained an integral part of their spiritual community, serving as church secretary and teaching Sunday School, sharing her faith and compassion wherever they called home.
Upon their return to St. Louis, Jerris continued to dedicate her time and skills to the church community in several capacities. Jerris served as the secretarial staff for the Home Missions Dept of the United Pentecostal Church Int. for many years. Upon retiring from that position, she would go on to serve as church secretary for the Florissant Valley Apostolic Church, now known as "The Sanctuary." In 2002, Jerris and Russell moved to
Bourbon, Missouri, to settle in their final home. Their commitment to faith led them to become founding members of LifePoint Church in Union, Missouri, where they continued to serve and inspire others.
Jerris's interests and hobbies were a testament to her love for life and her creative spirit. She was an avid baker and took great joy in cooking, often sharing her delicious creations with family and friends. Her talents extended to quilting, sewing, and gardening, activities that not only brought her personal fulfillment but also beautified the lives of those around her. Jerris and Russell cherished their travels, especially their trips to Hawaii, where they made lifelong memories together.
Jerris is survived by her sons, Russell D. Wasson and wife, Dorcas, of
Bourbon, MO, and Kerry L. Wasson and wife, Judith, of Hawaii; 6 grandchildren: Danielle A. Waldron and husband, Stephen, David K. Wasson, Dana H. Booker and husband, Jordan, all of
Bourbon, MO, Krista Joy Meintisis and husband, Timothy of Olive Branch, MS, Nathaniel K. Wasson and Angelina Fragoso and husband, Andrew all of Sacramento, CA; 8 great-grandchildren: Kaelyn, Brylee, Kinzey, Jaden, Karter, Sophia, Raegan & Malakai; 4 brothers: Rev. Meyer Sanders and wife, Roberta of Robertsdale, AL, James Sanders and wife, Nancy, Thomas Sanders and wife, Rhonda all of Farmington, MO, and Virgil "Butch" Sanders and wife, Regina of Blytheville, AR; two sisters: Marjorie Kuhn of Gasconade, MO and Bonnie Townsley and husband, Rev. Ron of Princeton, IL; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell R. Wasson; her siblings: Rev. Dewalin Sanders and his wife, Doris, Carol LaBoube, and Genotria "Jennie" Cox and her husband, Rev. Glenn.
Services will be 4:00 PM, Friday, August 8, 2025 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan, with Pastors Kerry Wasson and Jordan Booker officiating. Interment will follow at Bourbon Cemetery,
Bourbon, MO.
Visitation will be 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Friday, August 8, 2025 at the funeral home prior to the service.
Memorial contributions may be made in Jerris' memory to LifePoint Church at PO Box 852, Union, MO 63084 or online at www.lifepointunion.com.
Friends may send online condolences to Jerris' family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of
Sullivan, MO.